American Athletic Conference: Post-spring 2017 power rankings

For the first time in a dozen years, East Carolina went without a bowl appearance in consecutive seasons in 2015 and 2016. The Pirates won just one game in their American schedule, dominating UConn 41-3 at home in late October. They did, however, manage to keep their streak of wins over Power Five competition alive with their win over NC State.

What does that all mean for ECU in 2017? Spring practices culminated in a 17-17 tie at the spring game. The quarterback situation should be solid in Greenville, with Gardner Minshew shaking off early rust to throw two TD passes in the game. The team also has graduate transfer Thomas Sirk on his way this summer. The ground game should also improve, with both Tennessee transfer Derrell Scott and redshirt freshman Hussein Howe showing promise in limited work.

There is nothing easy about East Carolina’s schedule, including the season opener against FCS champion James Madison. The Pirates also play at West Virginia and host Virginia Tech, providing more opportunities for another statement win over a Power Five foe. But the postseason drought will likely extend to three years despite the progress that took place this spring.