It’s a philosophy that head coach Ruffin McNeill instilled when he arrived six years ago, and one that has been designed so that the Pirates never fall into any “trap” games. Still, a system where games against Towson and Florida are seen as equals is not without its drawbacks.
When ECU (4-4, 2-2 AAC) took the field on Thursday night against Temple, it had the chance to claim first place in the American’s East division. The entire ECU program downplayed the stakes, especially its head coach.
"Not one second,” McNeill said, of the time he’s spent thinking about winning the East.