Certainly Not a Surprise-What Can Tulane Football Expect When They Face East Carolina University?

What Can Tulane Football Expect Against East Carolina University?

Tulane Green Wave’s second conference game this season will see them facing off against East Carolina University (ECU), and here’s what to look out for.

In the 2023-2024 season, Tulane narrowly defeated the East Carolina Pirates 13-10 in a tough, defensive matchup in Greenville, North Carolina. This year, the Pirates will have their shot at revenge when the two teams meet on October 9th, marking Tulane’s second conference test.

Last season, East Carolina’s offense played a pivotal role in their success. When they scored 30 or more points, they were undefeated at 6-0 and finished the season with an 8-5 record. To beat ECU this year, Tulane will need to contain this high-scoring offense.

The Pirates bring back quarterback Katin Houser, who had a solid season last year, going 5-2 as a starter with 2,006 passing yards and 18 touchdowns. However, Houser struggled with turnovers, throwing 11 interceptions. For Tulane, safety Jack Tchienchou and cornerback Isaiah Wadsworth (a Wofford transfer) will be key players in the secondary, with both expected to be in the mix for interceptions.

Houser’s main target in the passing game will be wide receiver Anthony Smith, who led the Pirates last season with 799 yards and six touchdowns. ECU also has high hopes for Oklahoma transfer Jaquaize Pettaway. To help balance the offense, running backs London Montgomery and Marlon Gunn Jr. will need to step up to replace the production lost from star running back Rahjai Harris.

East Carolina’s defense has some promising playmakers as well. Defensive back Jordy Lowery, a West Carolina transfer who recorded six interceptions last season, could have a major impact. Defensive end J.D. Lampley, who registered 2.5 sacks last year, will anchor the defensive line, while safety Ja’Marley Riddle, who had three interceptions as a freshman, looks to build on a strong debut season.

For Tulane to be successful, their offense will need a strong performance, whether quarterback Kadin Semonza, Brendan Sullivan, or Donovan Leary is at the helm. However, the Green Wave defense will ultimately need to contain ECU’s explosive offense to secure the win.