Engleman’s 43-yard TD run in 4th helps East Carolina beat Rice 28-12

TJ Engleman Jr. rushed for a total of 136 yards, with a standout 43-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter. This remarkable effort helped East Carolina assert dominance and secure a 28-12 victory over Rice in their American Conference opener on Saturday. Engleman’s scoring run widened the gap to 21-9. Shortly after, Julien Davis' interception on the following series led to Emory Williams’ 12-yard touchdown run, extending the lead to 28-9 with 12:47 remaining in the game.

Ray Ray Joseph Jr. contributed significantly as well, completing 19 of 31 passes for 143 yards and two touchdowns, with Ray Ray Joseph Jr. securing six catches for 68 yards. Tyvonn Byars led Rice with 111 yards on 14 carries, scoring twice, including a 23-yard touchdown run that put Rice ahead 9-7 early in the third quarter. Gael Ochoa and Jacurri Brown combined for a dismal 4-of-14 passing, totaling 69 yards.