NC State and East Carolina Set for Showdown in the Military Bowl

It’s all about bragging rights and redemption as the NC State Wolfpack and East Carolina Pirates square off in the Military Bowl this Saturday in Annapolis, Maryland. With a rich history of rivalry and both teams having something to prove, this matchup promises to deliver high-stakes excitement.

East Carolina’s Comeback Story

The Pirates (7-5) are on a roll, and their journey this season has been nothing short of dramatic. After a rough start at 3-4, ECU made a bold move by promoting Blake Harrell to interim head coach on October 20. The change paid off big time—Harrell led the team to four straight wins, earning himself the permanent head coach title before the season even wrapped up.

For ECU, this bowl game feels like unfinished business. Back in 2021, they were invited to the Military Bowl, but the game was canceled due to COVID-19 issues with their opponent, Boston College.

“We’ve got 12 guys who were here for that canceled game. This time, we’re ready to finish what we started.”

-Blake Harrell

Players to Watch for ECU:

• Anthony Smith (WR): Smith has been a game-changer this season, racking up 767 receiving yards and six touchdowns after transferring from NC State. Facing his former team adds an extra layer of drama to his season finale.
• Katin Houser (QB): Since taking over midseason, Houser has thrown for 1,859 yards, 18 touchdowns, and nine interceptions. He’s been solid under pressure and will need to stay sharp against a tough NC State defense.

NC State’s Resilient Run

The Wolfpack (6-6) have had their share of ups and downs this season. After losing their starting quarterback, Grayson McCall, to a season-ending concussion, backup C.J. Bailey stepped in and kept the team afloat. Bailey’s heroics in the regular-season finale against North Carolina helped NC State secure bowl eligibility with a 35-30 comeback win.

Bailey finished the season with 2,183 passing yards, 14 touchdowns, and nine interceptions, but he’ll face this challenge without his top receiver, KC Concepcion, who entered the transfer portal.

“This is a rivalry game with a lot of history. Our guys are pumped to play, and it’s a chance to end the season on a high note.”

–Dave Doeren

NC State’s Bowl History:
It’s been a while since the Wolfpack celebrated a bowl win—their last victory came in 2017, and they’ve lost their last four postseason appearances. Breaking that streak adds extra motivation for this game.

The Rivalry Runs Deep

These two teams don’t meet often, but when they do, it’s always intense.

• Head-to-Head: NC State leads the series 19-13.
• Last Meeting: In 2022, NC State edged out ECU 21-20 in the season opener.
• Historic Matchup: The last time these teams played outside North Carolina was the 1991 Peach Bowl, where ECU claimed a dramatic 37-34 victory.

Key Matchups to Watch

1. Anthony Smith (ECU) vs. NC State Secondary
   • Smith will be highly motivated to shine against his former team, and he has the skills to make big plays.
2. C.J. Bailey (NC State) vs. ECU Defense
   • Bailey will need to adapt without his top receiver and avoid turnovers against a revitalized ECU defense.
3. Katin Houser (ECU) vs. NC State’s Pass Rush
   • Houser’s ability to stay cool under pressure will be key, as NC State’s defense looks to rattle him early.

What’s on the Line?

• For ECU: A win would cap off their incredible midseason turnaround and set the tone for Blake Harrell’s tenure as head coach.
• For NC State: Ending their bowl drought would be a satisfying way to close out a challenging season and build momentum for next year.

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Prediction

Both teams have plenty of motivation, but ECU’s momentum and Anthony Smith’s revenge game narrative give the Pirates a slight edge. NC State’s lack of consistency on offense, especially without KC Concepcion, could hold them back.

Final Score Prediction: East Carolina 28, NC State 24.

Get ready for a heated battle in Annapolis, as these in-state rivals leave it all on the field in the Military Bowl!