Three Things to Watch: ECU vs. Coastal Carolina

East Carolina heads to Conway on Saturday night for its second road game of the season, taking on Coastal Carolina inside Brooks Stadium. Both teams enter 1-1, with ECU fresh off a 56-3 thrashing of Campbell and the Chanticleers rebounding from a Week 1 loss to UVA by shutting out Charleston Southern. Here are three key storylines to keep an eye on.

1. Can ECU Start Fast on the Road?

The Pirates responded to their slow opener at NC State by wasting no time against Campbell, driving for a touchdown on the opening possession and keeping their foot on the gas. Replicating that kind of start will be much tougher in Conway, where Coastal’s defense has been inconsistent but opportunistic. If ECU can score early and control tempo, it takes the crowd out and puts pressure on the Chanticleers to play from behind.

2. Coastal’s Two-QB System

For the second straight week, Tim Beck and the Chanticleers are rolling with a two-quarterback approach. MJ Morris is the more established passer, while Tad Hudson has shown flashes as a complementary option. That kind of rotation can create challenges for ECU’s defense, which will need to stay disciplined with its communication and matchups. Expect Blake Harrell’s group to mix up looks and try to keep both QBs uncomfortable.

3. Road Test in a Charged Environment

While ECU has already gone on the road once this season, the trip to NC State came in a massive stadium against a familiar rival. Brooks Stadium offers a different type of test — smaller but packed and loud in prime time. Handling penalties, staying sharp on third downs, and avoiding costly turnovers will be crucial if the Pirates want to return home 2-1.