Greenville, North Carolina, September 5, 2025
News Summary
The ECU football team, holding a record of 0-1, prepares to face Campbell University in their home opener at Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium. After a close loss to NC State, the Pirates aim to improve their performance in front of a home crowd. Senior players are eager to showcase their skills and create a strong atmosphere as they promote various fan engagement events. Both teams aim to secure their first win of the season, making the game a crucial matchup for both sides.
Greenville, North Carolina – ECU Football Prepares for Home Opener Against Campbell After Season Opener Loss
The East Carolina University (ECU) football team, currently holding a record of 0-1, is set to face Campbell University, also at 0-1, in their home season opener on Saturday. The game will take place at Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium, with the kickoff scheduled for 6 p.m. Fans can catch the matchup live on ESPN+ and through 107.9 FM radio broadcasts.
In their previous game, the Pirates lost to North Carolina State University with a final score of 24-17. This narrow defeat has added pressure on the team as they look to turn their season around at home. Senior players, including Xavier McIver, expressed excitement about the home opener, especially after their fans missed out on attending the sold-out Week 1 game.
Last Week’s Performance Assessment
In the opener against N.C. State, ECU’s defense faced challenges, particularly in third-down situations, allowing the Wolfpack offense to gain momentum. The Pirates’ offense struggled significantly, finishing the first quarter with negative total yards and committing 10 penalties that totaled 86 yards. ECU’s running game was largely ineffective, managing only 30 net yards on 29 attempts.
Despite these setbacks, redshirt junior quarterback Katin Houser recorded career highs in completions, attempts, and passing yards, with 30 completions out of 44 attempts for 366 yards. Tight end Jayvontay Conner contributed by scoring a touchdown, helping ECU take a halftime lead. However, it was not enough to secure a win.
Campbell’s Performance Review
Campbell University also faced a setback during their season opener, losing to Rhode Island 31-20. The Camels’ roster features sophomore running back J.J. Cowan, who had an impressive game, averaging 6.1 yards per rush and scoring a touchdown. However, Campbell’s defense struggled against Rhode Island, conceding 275 passing yards and 109 rushing yards.
Upcoming Game Day Details
For the home opener against Campbell, ECU is promoting Pirate Club Day, Band Day, and Ag Day. Parking lots for the game will open at noon, with a Pirate Walk scheduled for 3:55 p.m. Gates to Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium will open at 4 p.m., and tickets are available for purchase at the stadium ticket office or online.
Looking Ahead
Head coach Blake Harrell emphasized the significance of practice and mindset as the team prepares for the challenge posed by Campbell. The Pirates are determined to improve their performance and establish a strong home field presence in front of their supporters.
Key Stats from Previous Games
| Team | Record | Opponent | Final Score | Passing Yards | Rushing Yards |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ECU | 0-1 | N.C. State | 17 – 24 | 366 | 30 |
| Campbell | 0-1 | Rhode Island | 20 – 31 | Unknown | Unknown |
FAQ
- What time is the ECU vs. Campbell game? The game is set to kick off at 6 p.m. on Saturday.
- Where will the game be held? The game will take place at Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium in Greenville, NC.
- How can I watch the game? The game will be available on ESPN+ and on 107.9 FM radio.
- What promotions are being offered for the home opener? ECU is promoting Pirate Club Day, Band Day, and Ag Day for the game.
- When do the parking lots open for the game? Parking lots for the game will open at noon.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
NC State Defeats ECU in Season Opener
N.C. State Defeats East Carolina in Season Opener
UNCW Women’s Soccer Team Achieves Last-Minute Draw
ECU Soccer and Football Teams Confront Challenging Opponents
ECU Soccer and Football Teams Face Tough Defeats
Tragic Shooting at NFL Headquarters Involving Casino Worker
Zion Wilson Aims for Leadership Role in ECU Football
Chase Stokes and Kelsea Ballerini Confirm Their Romance
East Carolina Pirates Win AAC Championship and NCAA Berth
East Carolina University Football Players Suspended Indefinitely
Additional Resources
- 247Sports: ECU Football Home Opener
- ECU Pirates Official Site: 2025 ECU Football Season
- 247Sports: ECU Football Offense Optimism
- Google Search: ECU Football 2025
- Wikipedia: East Carolina Pirates
Author: STAFF HERE OUTER BANKS WRITER
The OBX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOBX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in the Outer Banks, Dare County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Outer Banks Seafood Festival, NC VIP Fishing Tournament, and NCBBA Red Drum Tournament. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce and Outer Banks Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in tourism, retail, and hospitality that power the local economy such as Kitty Hawk Kites, Outer Banks Mall, and Avon Fishing Pier. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HERERaleigh.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
