The BYU Cougars are set to play their first road game of the season against the East Carolina Pirates in Week 4 of the 2025 regular season. The game will take place at Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium in Greenville, NC, with a kickoff scheduled for 7:30 PM on Saturday, September 20, 2025. Fans can tune in to ESPN2 to catch the action. BYU enters the game with a perfect 2-0 record, having dominated their home games against Portland State and Stanford. The Cougars have shown impressive offensive and defensive stats, particularly in their 69-0 win over Portland State. Despite their strong start, this will be their first test away from LaVell Edwards Stadium this season. East Carolina holds a 2-1 record, with one win each at home and on the road. The Pirates are coming off a commanding 38-0 victory against Coastal Carolina and a 56-3 win over Campbell. Playing at home, they will look to leverage their familiarity with Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium to challenge the visiting Cougars.
East Carolina vs BYU At a Glance
- Game Date & Time: Saturday, September 20, 2025, at 7:30 PM
- Location: Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium in Greenville, NC
- Television Broadcast: ESPN2
- BYU Record: 2-0 this season
- East Carolina Record: 2-1 this season
- Betting Odds: BYU is favored with a -283 moneyline and a -7.5 spread
East Carolina Pirates: A Look Ahead at Their Next Game
Offensive Performance
The East Carolina Pirates have been impressive on offense, particularly in the passing game. They rank 11th in passing yards with a total of 1,039 yards this season. However, their rushing game has room for improvement, ranked 73rd with 431 yards.
With 74 first downs, the Pirates demonstrate their ability to sustain drives, ranking 13th in this category. They have accumulated 111 points this season, placing them 26th in scoring. Their offensive capabilities will be crucial in the upcoming games.
Defensive Strengths
The Pirates’ defense has shown considerable prowess, ranking 13th in points allowed with just 27 points against them. They have been effective in pressuring the quarterback, recording 9 sacks and securing the 6th spot in this category.
East Carolina’s secondary has been active, achieving 3 interceptions, ranking 4th. The defense also excels in creating turnovers, leading the league with 5 fumbles recovered.
Key Players
Katin Houser leads the offense as a top-performing quarterback, with 973 passing yards, ranking 6th in the league. His efficiency and ability to find the end zone are reflected in his 5 passing touchdowns.
On the ground, London Montgomery stands out with 108 rushing yards and 2 touchdowns. Brock Spalding, although currently suspended, has been a key receiver with 13 receptions and 221 receiving yards.
Recent Performances
In their recent 38-0 victory over Coastal Carolina, the Pirates’ defense was impenetrable, allowing only 67 rushing yards. The offense also impressed, racking up 293 passing yards and 206 rushing yards.
The Pirates dominated Campbell with a 56-3 win, showcasing their offensive depth with 363 passing yards. Their only setback this season was a close 24-17 loss to NC State, where they put up a fight with 383 passing yards.
Injury Concerns
The Pirates face challenges with key suspensions affecting their lineup. Defensive lineman J.D. Lampley, along with wide receiver Brock Spalding and another defensive lineman Preston Carr, are out indefinitely.
These suspensions may impact the Pirates’ depth and performance, particularly on defense. Adjustments will be necessary as they prepare for their upcoming opponents.
Betting Trends
- ATS – After Loss: Last 5 Games (2024–2025) → 5-0 (100.0%)
- SU – As Favorite: Last 22 Games (2020–2025) → 17-5 (77.3%)
- ATS – Totals ≥ 50: Last 30 Games (2021–2025) → 22-8 (73.3%)
- ATS – All Games: Last 3 Games (2025) → 3-0 (100.0%)
- ATS – As Underdog: Last 3 Games (2024–2025) → 3-0 (100.0%)
BYU Cougars: Ready for the Road Test
BYU’s Offensive Overview
The BYU Cougars have delivered an effective offense in the 2025 season, with a total of 96 points, ranking them 37th. Their passing game has lagged a bit with 313 yards, placing them 132nd, but their rushing prowess is notable with 626 yards, making them 29th.
BYU’s rushing attack has been a key component in their offensive strategy, gaining first downs effectively. They have accumulated 46 first downs, positioning them 40th nationally, showing a balanced offensive approach.
Defensive Stronghold
Defensively, BYU has been a powerhouse, allowing only 3 points this season, which is the best in the nation. Their ability to pressure the quarterback is evident with 5 sacks, ranking them 10th.
The defense has also excelled in creating turnovers, with 2 interceptions and 2 fumbles recovered, ranking them 3rd and 4th respectively. This defensive strength plays a crucial role in setting up the offense with favorable field positions.
Recent Performances
In their recent games, BYU showcased a strong start to the season, defeating Stanford 27-3. The victory highlighted their defensive dominance, restricting Stanford to a mere 20 rushing yards.
Previously, BYU overwhelmed Portland State with a 69-0 win, demonstrating their offensive capabilities. They managed an impressive 468 rushing yards, indicating their potent ground game.
Key Players to Watch
Bear Bachmeier, the starting QB, has contributed significantly with 272 passing yards in two games. His ability to manage the game without turnovers is crucial for BYU’s success.
On the ground, LJ Martin has been exceptional with 241 rushing yards, ranking him 45th nationally. His performance is vital in maintaining their rushing effectiveness.
Team Betting Trends
- SU – As Favorite: 25-5 (83.3%) in the last 30 games.
- SU – After Win: 10-1 (90.9%) in the last 11 games.
- O/U – Away Games: 5-0 (100%) in the last 5 games.
- ATS – All Games: 10-5 (66.7%) in the last 15 games.
East Carolina vs BYU Prediction: Over 49.5
Both East Carolina and BYU have shown the ability to put points on the board early this season. East Carolina scored 38 points in their recent win over Coastal Carolina, while BYU has accumulated 96 points over their first two games. Their offensive capabilities suggest that this game could surpass the 49.5 total.
BYU’s defense, while ranking first in points against, has yet to be tested on the road. East Carolina’s high-powered passing game, ranked 11th in the nation, could exploit BYU’s defense under night game conditions in Greenville. This combination of offensive prowess and defensive uncertainty indicates a potential for a high-scoring affair.
Both teams have demonstrated a propensity for scoring, with East Carolina ranking 26th in points for and BYU 37th. Additionally, East Carolina’s defense, although strong, has given up points against other high-ranking offenses, which could contribute to a higher scoring game. This matchup has the potential to exceed expectations with both teams’ offensive strengths.
Based on these factors, the prediction is that the game total will go over 49.5 points. Both teams will likely capitalize on scoring opportunities, leading to a final score that exceeds the set total.
- East Carolina vs BYU Prediction: Over 49.5
- East Carolina vs BYU Score: BYU 31 – East Carolina 24
