The East Carolina Pirates are set to take on the Old Dominion Monarchs on September 7, 2024, in what could be a tightly contested matchup at S.B. Ballard Stadium in Norfolk, Virginia. Both teams are coming off games that highlighted their strengths and exposed their weaknesses. East Carolina enters the game with confidence after a 42-3 drubbing of Norfolk State. Quarterback Jake Garcia was impressive, throwing for 308 yards and four touchdowns, though he also threw three interceptions, which is a concern against a capable Old Dominion defense.

Old Dominion, meanwhile, showed promise in their season opener despite a 23-19 loss to South Carolina. The Monarchs’ defense was stout, allowing just 288 yards and forcing multiple turnovers. Offensively, quarterback Grant Wilson threw for 197 yards, a touchdown, and two interceptions. Wide receiver Isiah Paige was a standout performer with 115 receiving yards and a touchdown, proving to be a key target in their passing game. The key to this game will likely be which team can clean up their mistakes and execute more effectively on offense. East Carolina’s high-powered offense, which generated 506 total yards in Week 1, will need to minimize turnovers to avoid giving Old Dominion short fields and easy scoring opportunities. For Old Dominion, the game plan will revolve around maintaining their defensive intensity while finding more consistency on offense to keep pace with East Carolina’s potential for quick scores.