East Carolina Pirates vs. NC State Wolfpack 12/28/24 – An interesting matchup is on the cards with the East Carolina Pirates (7-5) taking on NC State Wolfpack (6-6) in the Military Bowl. These two teams head to Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium with impressive narratives, as East Carolina is on a nice end-of-season run while NC State has been competitive despite the struggles this season. Bowl victory is one to fight for and it will be an entertaining contest as both teams will vie for control of the game in front of a presumably packed out crowd.
East Carolina Pirates vs. NC State Wolfpack 12/28/24
| When: | Saturday, December 28, 2024, at 5:45 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium |
| TV: | ESPN |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
| Team | SP/RL | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pirates | +6 | Over 58.5 (-105) | +180 |  |
| Wolfpack | -6 | Under 58.5 (-115) | -215 | |
| ||||
Get Up! It's Gameday! 🏴☠️ pic.twitter.com/pfcl66Z4JQ
— ECU Football (@ECUPiratesFB) December 28, 2024
The Wolfpack were 6 point favorites on the spread but based on their ATS record of 1-5 when favored, it is questionable if they will be able to cover. But considering that East Carolina has a +6 spread and boast a 4-1 SU in their last five games, this spread looks good to take. Both teams outright scoring at least a combined 58.5 points indicate over to be a good option since both teams have competent offensive capabilities.
Katin Houser QB vs. CJ Bailey QB
Katin Houser has been a consistent contributor to the offense for East Carolina, amassing 1,859 yards and 18 touchdowns through the air. Even though he has recorded nine interceptions during the season; it should be noted that his efficiency is still commendable with commendable figures of 8.6 yards per attempt and a passer rating of 152.1. Coupled with this, his arm strength clearly will play an important role when he works with wide out Anthony Smith, especially against NC State’s secondary.
CJ Bailey who plays for the Wolfpack, is leading the team in passing yards with 2,183 yards along with 14 passing touchdowns. Illustrating his versatility, Bailey recorded a 64.1% completion rate as well as a 75 yard pass play throughout the season. However, he has faced difficulty in responding to pressure and has been sacked a total of 21 times throughout the season. Thus, against East Carolina’s staunch defense, Bailey’s ability to facilitate the game while avoiding costly errors will be key.
Pirates Rely on Offensive Balance
The East Carolina offense has been doing well in the previous weeks with running back Rahjai Harris propelling them forward with 946 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns. There is also wide receiver Anthony Smith who adds the vertical dimension with 20.2 yards per reception as a wide threat. Prior to their last game against Navy, the Pirates had a four match winning streak which proved their ground and aerial domination. But inconsistencies on the defense still remain an area of concern.
Wolfpack Banking on Versatility
NC State has displayed some promising moments, including their season ending victory over their rival North Carolina. Running back Jordan Waters has showcased his explosive capabilities with a long run of 94 yards. Additionally, wide receiver Kevin Concepcion has been consistent however the offense was not so during their losses against Duke and Georgia Tech. In order to stop East Carolina’s powerful offensive, the Wolfpack’s defense has to make an appearance.
Trends
East Carolina Pirates Betting Trends
East Carolina is 4-2 ATS in their last six games.
The total has gone OVER in five of East Carolina’s last seven games.
East Carolina is 4-1 SU in their last five games.
NC State Wolfpack Betting Trends
NC State is 4-1 ATS in their last five games.
The total has gone OVER in four of NC State’s last five games.
NC State is 8-1 SU in their last nine games against AAC opponents.
East Carolina Pirates vs. NC State Wolfpack Betting Prediction
The current state and the recent performance of the Pirates as underdog sides makes them to be a safe bet with the spread. Due to NC State’s failure to win ballgames consistently as favorites and due to East Carolina’s balanced offensive strategy, this game will be much closer than the spread would suggest. Considering past games, it is reasonable to bet for the over with 58.5 points since the two teams are known for shooting plenty of points.
Haul in Rahjai Harris rushing yard over props and Anthony Smith receiving yard over props for a win. On the other hand, CJ Bailey’s passing yardage over is also another interesting bet.
Score Prediction: East Carolina Pirates 31, NC State Wolfpack 28.
