The Pirates (2-4; 0-2 American Athletic Conference) seemed much more focused to start the game than in previous weeks. ECU’s opening drive lasted 12 plays, and ultimately resulted in a 40-yard field goal to give the Pirates the early 3-0 lead.
During USF’s second possession of the game, a throw at the goal line was broken up by defensive back Colby Gore, who has stepped up in the absence of other starting cornerback Corey Seargent.
Gore however was ejected after the play due to a targeting call, putting ECU’s defense in a deeper hole with the injuries to Seargent and nose tackle Demetri McGill.