East Carolina Tops UTSA 30-20 in AAC Opener

On Saturday night in Greenville, North Carolina, East Carolina University faced off against the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) in their American Athletic Conference opener. Jake Garcia played a pivotal role for the Pirates, throwing for two touchdowns and rushing for another, leading his team to a 30-20 victory. The game saw a competitive first half, with UTSA initially taking a 13-3 lead, but Garcia's 3-yard touchdown run just before halftime shifted momentum. In the second half, East Carolina capitalized on their opportunities, with Garcia connecting with Winston Wright Jr. for a 40-yard touchdown, giving the Pirates the lead. Despite a setback with an interception, Garcia rebounded with a 53-yard touchdown pass to Anthony Smith, further extending their advantage. Noah Perez contributed significantly with three field goals, including a crucial 42-yarder that made the score 27-13. UTSA attempted to rally, with Brandon High scoring on a 66-yard run to narrow the gap to 27-20. However, the Roadrunners struggled offensively in the final quarter, failing to secure a first down on four consecutive possessions. This loss dropped UTSA to a 2-3 record, while East Carolina improved to 3-2, showcasing their resilience and ability to perform under pressure. The game highlighted the importance of strong quarterback play and effective special teams, as East Carolina's balanced attack proved too much for UTSA to handle, marking a significant win in their conference campaign.