BREAKING NEWS: East Carolina Boots Coach After Tumultuous 3-4 Season

East Carolina Boots Coach After Tumultuous 3-4 Season

East Carolina University made a significant change on Sunday, parting ways with head football coach Mike Houston following a disappointing 3-4 start to the season. Athletic director Jon Gilbert emphasized the need for a shift in direction, stating, “A change is needed to move the program forward. We have high expectations, and those are not changing.”

Houston, who took the helm in 2019, compiled a record of 27-38 over five-plus seasons. While Gilbert acknowledged Houston’s success in leading the Pirates to back-to-back bowl appearances in 2021 and 2022, the team has struggled recently, posting a dismal 5-14 record since those notable seasons. The Pirates’ recent performance included a tough loss to Army, where they fell 45-28, just a week after a staggering 55-24 defeat to Charlotte.

In his statement, Gilbert expressed confidence in finding the right leader for the program. “I believe ECU is a premier job with a passionate fan base, unprecedented support from our Pirate Club donors, and great facilities that continue to improve,” he remarked. He also highlighted the immediate focus on the student-athletes, who are still vying for a postseason opportunity with five regular-season games remaining.

As the search for a new head coach begins, defensive coordinator Blake Harrell will step in as the interim head coach for the remainder of the season. This transition period will be crucial for the Pirates as they look to stabilize the team and regain momentum on the field. The upcoming games will be pivotal for both the players and the interim staff, as they aim to finish the season strong and build a foundation for the future.