East Carolina head coach Blake Harrell reveals mindset ahead of matchup vs. Alabama

Oct 16, 2025; Greenville, North Carolina, USA; East Carolina Pirates head coach Blake Harrell looks on against the Tulsa Golden Hurricane during the first half at Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: James Guillory-Imagn Images

The Alabama Crimson Tide will kickoff the 2026 campaign with a matchup against East Carolina on September 5th.

The Tide will undoubtedly enter the contest as overwhelming favorites. Alabama has a young and promising roster following a handful of departures this offseason, and each player could begin to make an impact against the Pirates during Week 1. 

East Carolina head coach Blake Harrell was recently asked about the Pirates upcoming matchup vs. Alabama, as Harrell claims his team will be ready for the challenge by September. 

“Anytime you have an opponent that’s a big game, and obviously, Alabama has done a tremendous job over the years, and they have a lot of talented players.”He said. “Coach DeBoer has done an exceptional job. They are a very good football team. I think our focus has to be on East Carolina, our preparation, and just get started in August, and we’re about our business.”

East Carolina ended the 2025 campaign with an overall record of 9-4. Harrell will certainly need to ensure his team his is at their best prior to Week 1 in Tuscaloosa, as Alabama will undoubtedly enter the matchup with a chip on their shoulder following last years’ season-ending loss to Indiana in the Rose Bowl.