The Pirates (5-7, 3-5 American Athletic Conference) lost in a similar situation to the Bearcats last season as well. There was a lot more at stake this time around however, as a win would have qualified the Pirates for their fourth consecutive bowl game.
“It hurts to lose, nobody likes to lose, I just wish the result was different,” ECU wide receiver Isaiah Jones said. “You want to win so bad, you want to win for these older guys. It’s just a horrible feeling.”
ECU quarterback Blake Kemp finished as the team’s leading rusher and passer, throwing for 315 yards and a touchdown, as well as having six carries for 33 yards.