2009 East Carolina Pirates College Football Predictions

2009 East Carolina Pirates Predictions
2008 Record: (9-5, 6-2)
Coach: Skip Holtz, 4th year, (29-22 at East Carolina, 63-45 overall)
Off. Coordinator: Todd Fitch (3rd year) and Steve Shankweiler (15th year)
Def. Coordinator: Greg Hudson (5th year)
Returning Starters: 18 (8 offense, 8 defense, punter, kicker)
Ret. Starting Quarterback: Yes (Patrick Pinkney)

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Offense: Patrick Pinkney returns after the NCAA gave him a sixth year of eligibility after missing the 2205 season recovering from shoulder problems after redshirting in 2004. He started in 13 of 14 games last season, throwing for 2,675 yards with just seven interceptions in 363 attempts. He should have an even bigger season with the return of receivers Darryl Freeney and Dwayne Harris, who led the way with 654 yards on 58 catches last season. The big concern is at running back where Norman Whitley (698 yards, 4 TDs) returns after taking a leave of absence in the spring. That leaves an opening for Kentucky transfer Brandon Jackson because junior Jonathan Williams (380 yards) has legal issues and might not play this fall. The offensive line returns four starters from a strong unit.

Defense: The defense returns eight starters from a defense that allowed 21.1ppg (30th in the nation) last season and 330 yards per game (41st in the nation). The defensive line is experienced, led by end C.J. Wilson (6-4, 271), who led the Pirates in tackles for loss with 18.5 and 10.5 sacks. Tackles Linval Joseph (6-6, 300) and Jay Ross (6-3, 306) are sturdy against the run up the middle. The linebackers are anchored by senior MLB Nick Johnson (6-1, 215), who led the team with 102 tackles last season. Senior OLB Chris Mattocks (6-0, 210) is back after playing some at safety and linebacker last year. The secondary is the strength of this unit as FS Van Eskridge (6-0, 200) is back after picking off four of their 22 interceptions last year. He also finished third in tackles with 97.

Outlook: The Pirates open with a very tough FCS (1-AA) opponent in Appalachian State at home, and then face West Virginia and North Carolina on the road. They also host rival Virginia Tech at home in November. This is one tough schedule that features Southern Miss at home in the season finale.

This CUSA prediction is courtesy of the ATS Sports Blog. If you are looking for winning college football betting picks be sure to choose ATS Consultants this year, A featured sports handicapping service on Touthouse.com