BOONE, NC - In a dominant display, the Appalachian State Mountaineers secured a resounding 37-7 victory over the East Carolina Pirates at Kidd Brewer Stadium. The game, which saw the Mountaineers excel in all phases, demonstrated their offensive potency, defensive resilience, and special teams prowess.
From the outset, Appalachian State set the tone with a balanced offensive attack. Joey Aguilar, the Mountaineers’ quarterback, was nearly flawless, completing 12 of 13 passes for 156 yards and two touchdowns. Aguilar's precision passing and smart decision-making were instrumental in the Mountaineers' offensive efficiency. Running back Kanye Roberts complemented Aguilar's efforts with a solid performance on the ground, rushing for 64 yards and a touchdown on 17 carries.
The Mountaineers struck early, taking a 7-0 lead in the first quarter on a 15-yard touchdown pass from Aguilar to Eli Wilson. The Pirates responded in the second quarter with their lone touchdown of the game, a short run by Rahjai Harris, but it was Appalachian State who dominated the second quarter, extending their lead to 17-7 by halftime. Aguilar’s second touchdown pass, a 20-yard strike to Michael Hetzel, and a field goal by Michael Hughes were key contributors to the lead.
Appalachian State’s defense was relentless, forcing four turnovers and stifling East Carolina's offense. The Pirates struggled to move the ball, gaining only 207 total yards compared to the Mountaineers' 256. The defensive unit was led by Myles Farmer and Seth Robertson, who each recorded interceptions, while Brodrick Gooch added a sack. The Mountaineers' ability to disrupt East Carolina's passing game was evident as they intercepted quarterback Jake Garcia three times, significantly hampering the Pirates' ability to mount a comeback.
Special teams also played a crucial role in Appalachian State's victory. Kaedin Robinson’s 85-yard kickoff return for a touchdown early in the third quarter effectively put the game out of reach for the Pirates. Additionally, Robinson contributed with three punt returns for 53 yards, consistently providing the Mountaineers with excellent field position.
The Mountaineers' dominance continued in the second half, with Aguilar engineering two more scoring drives. Hughes added two more field goals, and Roberts capped the scoring with a 4-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter. The Mountaineers’ offensive line, led by Thomas Shrader and Michael Marotta, provided Aguilar with excellent protection throughout the game, not allowing a single sack.
East Carolina's offense, meanwhile, was largely ineffective. Garcia completed only 8 of 16 passes for 139 yards, and the running game was held to a mere 68 yards on 16 carries. The Pirates' lone bright spots were Rahjai Harris, who led the team in both rushing and receiving yards, and Winston Wright Jr., who contributed with solid returns.
The victory was a comprehensive team effort for Appalachian State, showcasing their ability to execute in all facets of the game. With this win, the Mountaineers not only improved their record but also sent a clear message to their future opponents about the strength and versatility of their squad. As the season progresses, Appalachian State will look to build on this performance and continue their march toward their goals.
Overall, the Mountaineers’ performance was a testament to their preparation, execution, and resilience. The fans at Kidd Brewer Stadium were treated to an exceptional display of college football, leaving them excited for the rest of the season.
Quarter 1
(APP) Michael Hetzel 6 Yd pass from Joey Aguilar (Michael Hughes kick), 2:10
Quarter 2
(ECU) Rahjai Harris, 5 Yd run (Andrew Conrad kick), 3:58
(APP) Makai Jackson, returned kickoff 85 Yds (Michael Hughes kick), 3:48
(APP) Michael Hughes, 39 Yd FG, 0:24
Quarter 3
(APP) Eli Wilson 14 Yd pass form Joey Aguilar (Michael Hughes kick) 3:39
(APP) Kanye Roberts, 10 Yd run (Michael Hughes kick) 3:10
Quarter 4
(APP) Michael Hughes 28 Yd FG 3:16
(APP) Michael Hughes 39 Yd FG 1:56
Two weeks in a row ECU had too many turnovers to overcome at state, took advantage of the turnovers and scored on all of them, but this was an old-fashioned buck whipping will be on the schedule again and we’re looking forward to it. It might be the number one rival on the schedule, good luck to state bring home a trophy for the little guys
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