Through 3 Quarters

Only one more quarter stands between the Appalachian State Mountaineers and the victory they were favored to collect going into this night. It's looking more and more like their high-powered offense is just too much for the East Carolina Pirates as Appalachian State lead 27-9. The Mountaineers' offense has come from several players so far, with QB Chase Brice leading the way by passing for two TDs and 259 yards on 26 attempts.

With four sacks, the Appalachian State defense has been a true menace for East Carolina's offensive line. We'll see if Appalachian State can continue to haunt the offensive line.

Who's Playing

East Carolina @ Appalachian State

Last Season Records: Appalachian State 9-3; East Carolina 3-6

What to Know

The Appalachian State Mountaineers and the East Carolina Pirates are opening their 2021 seasons against one another at 7:30 p.m. ET Thursday on a neutral field at Bank of America Stadium. After a 9-3 record last year and a win in the Myrtle Beach Bowl, Appalachian State is coming in with an eye to spark another quality season. On the other hand, East Carolina struggled last season, ending up 3-6.

A couple last-season defensive stats to keep in the back of your head while watching: The Mountaineers were ninth best in the nation in passing yards allowed per game, finishing the 2020 season giving up only 177.9 on average. Less enviably, East Carolina ranked 14th worst in the nation with respect to rushing touchdowns allowed last year, where the squad gave up 23 (bottom 90%). The good news for East Carolina, of course, is that these forces working against them might not carry over into the new season.

Appalachian State is the favorite in this one, with an expected 9-point margin of victory. A win is hardly a sure thing, especially this early in the season, so expect a good game.

How To Watch

  • When: Thursday at 7:30 p.m. ET
  • Where: Bank of America Stadium -- Charlotte, North Carolina
  • TV: ESPN University
  • Online streaming: fuboTV (Try for free. Regional restrictions may apply.)
  • Follow: CBS Sports App
  • Ticket Cost: $57.00

Odds

The Mountaineers are a big 9-point favorite against the Pirates, according to the latest college football odds.

Bettors have moved against the Mountaineers slightly, as the game opened with the Mountaineers as an 11.5-point favorite.

Over/Under: -111

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Series History

This is the first time these teams have played each other within the last six years.