GREENVILLE, North Carolina -- East Carolina got a sneak preview of its opening week opponent on Saturday when North Carolina A&T played Jacksonville State in the nationally-televised FCS Kickoff Classic.
So what did the Pirates learn about the Aggies from their 20-17 victory?
At least one thing that should make them wary and a couple of others that should help them feel better about their chances for getting the new season off to a better start than the one that opened against a different FCS opponent a year ago.
First the area of concern.
Coming off an undefeated season in which it won the Historically Black Colleges and Universities national championship with an abundance of experienced players on both sides of the ball, A&T is a veteran team that knows how to win. And win on the road.
It showed that against Jacksonville State by twice rallying from deficits in the third quarter. Then, after regaining the lead, the Aggies hung on to win the game by making three big plays — a blocked field goal and two forced fumbles — just when they needed them.
They’re the kind of team that can give ECU trouble if the Pirates let them hang around and give them an opportunity to do what they do best.
That having been said, there’s every reason to believe that if coach Scottie Montgomery’s team doesn’t turn the ball over or find other ways to shoot itself in the foot, A&T won’t be close enough for a few big plays to make a difference in the outcome.
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