Topic: H-D: ECU's formula for success no secret

[ZackUSAF82]

By ANTHONY HANSHEW
The Herald-Dispatch

HUNTINGTON -- There's exactly zero secret to what's coming.

Since season's start, East Carolina's formula for success begins with Chris Johnson. Establish the playmaking tailback and ECU's passing game unfolds.

Johnson introduced himself to Marshall University football fans two seasons ago, rushing for 106 yards and three touchdowns in a 34-29 victory. He largely was a non-factor in last year's 33-20 win, gaining just nine ground yards and catching five passes for 40 yards.

Still, the bullseye looms large heading into Saturday's matchup. Johnson is coming off a career-best 301-yard rushing performance at Memphis, upping his season total to 973.

It's virtually certain that East Carolina will slam Johnson and a physical offensive front into Marshall's defense until they are stopped. Johnson vs. the Herd defense is the top game within the game when ECU (6-4, 5-1 Conference USA) takes on Marshall (1-8, 1-4). Kickoff at Joan C. Edwards Stadium is 4:30 p.m. Saturday.

"The first thing we try to do is establish the run," Pirates senior guard Matt Butler deadpanned. "We know they'll be gunning for Chris, but we just try to stick to our assignments, no matter how many are in the box.

Link: http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x577138424