By Steve Worthy
Photography
East Carolina defeated North Carolina Central University 42-9 in a non-conference matchup at Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium in Greenville on Sept. 26.
The Eagles faced a tough ECU defense throughout the game but continued to battle on both sides of the ball. Quarterback Nelson Layne used his mobility to pick up yards under pressure, including scrambling past ECU defensive lineman Kelton Smith and fighting through contact from defensive back Angelo Ross.
NC Central's defense also found opportunities to disrupt the Pirates. Defensive lineman Taeshawn Alston brought down ECU quarterback Emory Williams for a sack and later celebrated with teammates Jaysen Oriol and Eli Clark.
On offense, running back Zion Dobson helped move the ball on the ground in the second half, while quarterback Cobey Thompkins also entered the game and looked to create opportunities through the air.
East Carolina's offense ultimately proved too much for the Eagles. Wide receivers Ray-Ray Joseph and Ja'Keith Shelton contributed to the Pirates' attack as ECU built its advantage and secured the 42-9 victory.
The non-conference contest brought the two North Carolina programs together in Greenville, with NC Central leaving Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium with the loss while East Carolina added another win to its season.
