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College Football Betting Preview: Appalachian State Mountaineers vs. East Carolina Pirates

September 16, 2023



Prepare for an electrifying showdown as the Appalachian State Mountaineers (1-1) face off against the East Carolina Pirates (0-2). Explore the exceptional betting prospects offered by these teams, as the Mountaineers look to get back on track.


  • Date: September 16, 2023 at 3:30 PM ET

  • Location: Kidd Brewer Stadium in Boone, North Carolina

  • Coverage: ESPN+

Appalachian State Mountaineers Betting Preview

The Mountaineers are seeking their second victory of this season, having previously lost to the UNC Tar Heels in double overtime 40-34. They have been successful in their last five home games, so this could help their chances.

Quarterback Joey Aguilar has done well to start the season, with a completion rate of 58.9 percent. This also goes along with 449 passing yards, six touchdowns, and one interception.

Dashaun Davis, Kaedin Robinson, and Dalton Stroman have contributed 250 receiving yards and three touchdowns. The Mountaineers' ground game is also strong, as they average 184.5 yards per game, led by Nate Noel with 242 yards and three touchdowns.

On the defensive side, they allow an average of 32 points and 443.5 yards per game. Nick Ross leads in tackles with 21, Brendan Harrington has one sack, and Jackson Greene has one interception for the Appalachian State Mountaineers. This rounds out a solid defensive unit.

East Carolina Pirates Betting Preview

The Pirates are seeking a victory after suffering defeats against Michigan and Marshall in the first two weeks. They are aiming to prevent a winless start, which has not been seen since the 2017 CFB season.

Quarterback Mason Garcia has completed 51.2 percent of his passes, as well as accumulating 142 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions. They will need more from him to lead this team to victory.

Jsi Hatfield and Jaylen Johnson have jointly recorded 136 receiving yards from 13 catches, with Javious Bond contributing 3 receptions. As long as they get the ball at a good rate, their offense could flourish. Their rushing game is solid, but averaging 124.5 yards per game, led by Garcia with 154 yards on 24 carries. 

Defensively, they concede an average of 30.5 points and 397 yards per game. Julius Wood tops the Pirates with 15 tackles, Teagan Wilk has two pass deflections, and Omar Rogers has one pass deflection.

Game Odds, Series Trends and Free Pick

MyBookie has the latest odds currently favoring the Appalachian State Mountaineers to win by nearly 10 points. According to market analysis, the Mountaineers have a 63.1 percent chance to win.


  • East Carolina Pirates +9.5 (-110)

  • Appalachian State Mountaineers -9.5 (-110)

Mountaineers nearly won their game against the Tar Heels, who are currently 20th in the nation. Look for them to cover.

Spooky Express Pick: Take the Appalachian State Mountaineers -9.5 (-110)