East Carolina defeats North Carolina Central 42-9

East Carolina University defeated North Carolina Central 42-9 on Saturday in Greenville, North Carolina. The Pirates secured the victory with a dominant first half, scoring 35 points in the second quarter to lead 42-3 at halftime.

Quarterback Emory Williams, a transfer from Miami, took over the starting role and completed 25 of 36 passes for 341 yards and three touchdowns. TJ Engleman Jr. contributed significantly to the win, accounting for three scores through 129 rushing yards, including an 88-yard touchdown run, a 5-yard run, and an 8-yard touchdown reception. Ayden Duncanson added to the lead with a 20-yard interception return for a touchdown.

North Carolina Central, now 2-3, managed a single touchdown pass from Cobey Thompkins to Nasim Cosby. East Carolina improves to a 2-2 record on the season.