ECU vs. Virginia: Keys to the game

ECU vs. Virginia keys to the game:

ECU

Run the ball: With the injuries in the backfield, getting the running game going against a good Virginia front seven will be difficult, but it's a must. The Pirates inconsistent running has caused quarterback James Pinkney to take some shots in the backfield. Establishing the run early will be important to loosen up the Cavalier defense and set up the play action and passing game.

Pressure Jameel Sewell: The Pirates must get to, and hit, Sewell. This will be the toughest road environment the freshman has yet to face, and the Pirates must contain his athleticism and force him into mistakes.

Win field position: The Cavaliers thumped Duke by playing much of the game with a short field. Virginia forced five turnovers in Durham and its longest scoring drive was 46 yards. The Pirates have to be solid in special teams, cannot turn the ball over, and need to make the struggling Cavalier offense drive the length of the field to score.

Virginia

Run the ball: Just like ECU, the Cavaliers have struggled to run the ball. They are averaging just 2.4 yards per carry on the ground and a measly 62 yards per game, which is next to last in Division I-A.

Force turnovers: ECU has yet to play a game without any turnovers. The Pirates defense, which leads the nation in takeaways, has kept them in games. If the Cavaliers want to win this game, they must win the turnover battle, which would mean spying quarterback James Pinkney.

Hit the big play: The Cavaliers have just two plays in five games to go for over 25 yards. ECU allowed a 60-yard catch and run against West Virginia, which changed the momentum of that game. Virginia needs similar plays to take the crowd out of the game and pull off the upset.