I am going to lay the road wood with surging East Carolina at UAB tonight.

After consecutive losses to open the season, East Carolina has won three straight, including last Saturday’s 28-12 victory over Rice. 

The Pirates overcame a third-quarter deficit and finished strongly, reinforcing the improvement shown since Emory Williams took over at quarterback. The first meeting between these programs since November 2013 also gives this matchup a different feel from a familiar conference rivalry.

The bigger advantage for East Carolina is its defense against a UAB offense that has struggled to sustain production through the air. The Blazers appeared to be in position for a quality road result at Memphis, taking a 13-10 halftime lead before committing costly turnovers and getting outscored 28-0 in the second half of a 38-13 defeat.

UAB is averaging just 155.8 passing yards per game, and the offensive line has surrendered 16 sacks, the most in the American Conference. East Carolina, meanwhile, ranks first nationally with 10.2 tackles for loss per game and has allowed only one passing touchdown this season. That defensive pressure could make life difficult for quarterback Ryder Burton and force UAB into unfavorable passing situations.

East Carolina’s recent defensive performances and improving running game led by TJ Engleman Jr. who has averaged 121 rushing yards per game during the three-game winning streak, sets up nicely in this conference road battle.

East Carolina’s ability to pressure the quarterback, defend the run and capitalize on mistakes bodes well for a road win and cover under the Thursday night lights in this AAC battle. 

Lay it with the Pirates.

1♦ EAST CAROLINA

Based on 1♦ to 5♦