Topic: H-D: Talented group of receivers boost ECU air attack

[ZackUSAF82]

By ANTHONY HANSHEW
The Herald-Dispatch

HUNTINGTON -- For two years, defending East Carolina's pass game wasn't a difficult equation -- on paper.

Aundrae Allison primarily was a one-player aerial show, combining for 145 receptions, 1,732 yards and 11 touchdowns. The physical wideout has since graduated to the NFL's Minnesota Vikings, leaving ECU without a marquee target.

Strength in numbers has left the Pirates offense hardly lacking, however. Seven different receivers have reached double-digit catch totals, highlighting a passing attack averaging 210.6 yards a game.

Playing off tailback Chris Johnson's big-play ability, deciphering a go-to target is now tricky. Tracking this diverse group is a significant challenge when Marshall hosts the Pirates on Saturday. The Thundering Herd (1-8, 1-4 Conference USA) and ECU (6-4, 5-1) kick off at 4:30 p.m. at Joan C. Edwards Stadium.

"We feel like this is the best group of receivers that we've faced," Marshall head coach Mark Snyder said. "There's better individual talent out there - (Rice's) Jarett Dillard, (Houston's Donnie Avery) - but as a group we feel this is the best corps of receivers we'll play this year."

Link: http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1851085531