In the aftermath of a nail-biting 21-20 loss to NC State, East Carolina University (ECU) head football coach Mike Houston had some pointed comments for the opposition. The game, which took place on September 3, 2022, saw the ECU Pirates narrowly missing an upset victory against the 13th-ranked NC State Wolfpack. The game’s outcome was determined by a missed extra point and a last-second field goal attempt by ECU kicker Owen Daffer, which both failed to hit their mark.
Despite the heartbreaking loss, Houston made it clear that ECU’s performance on the field was a strong statement to NC State and their head coach. “We were prepared, we played hard, and we put ourselves in a position to win against a top-tier team,” Houston emphasized in his post-game press conference. His message was clear: ECU is not to be underestimated, and their near-victory was a sign of the program’s growth and potential [[❞]](https://ecupirates.com/news/2023/9/12/football-mike-houstons-weekly-press-conference-quotes.aspx) [[❞]](https://clutchpoints.com/nc-state-football-news-ecu-head-coachs-message-to-kicker-whose-double-choke-sealed-win-for-wolfpack).
Houston also took the opportunity to support his players, particularly Daffer, whose missed kicks were pivotal. “I told him I care about him and I’m here for him. Those kicks will not define him,” Houston said, showing his commitment to his team’s morale and development [[❞]](https://clutchpoints.com/nc-state-football-news-ecu-head-coachs-message-to-kicker-whose-double-choke-sealed-win-for-wolfpack). This stance not only reflects Houston’s leadership style but also serves as a warning to future opponents that ECU is resilient and undeterred by setbacks.
The Pirates outgained the Wolfpack in total yardage and showed defensive prowess, holding NC State to just 4 of 13 on third downs. Houston noted these positives and expressed confidence in his team’s ability to bounce back and continue to challenge high-ranked opponents.
Looking ahead, Houston and the Pirates are focused on their upcoming game against Appalachian State. While the loss to NC State stings, it also serves as a motivator for ECU to prove their strength and capability in future contests.
In conclusion, Mike Houston’s post-game remarks serve as both a reflection on a hard-fought game and a warning to NC State and other future opponents. ECU’s near-upset and the coach’s unwavering support for his players highlight the competitive spirit and potential within the Pirates’ football program.
