East Carolina secured a Military Bowl victory over an ACC opponent, despite playing without key players like starting quarterback Katin Houser and top rusher London Montgomery, who opted out for the transfer portal. Backup quarterback Chaston Ditta led the team with two touchdown passes and 177 passing yards. The Pirates' defense, highlighted by Rasheem Biles' fumble return for a touchdown and 16 tackles, contributed significantly to the win, even as the team was outgained in total yards.