ECU Fires Coach Houston; Search for Replacement Begins

East Carolina University (ECU) has fired head coach Mike Houston after a 3-4 start to the 2024 season, following a disappointing 2-10 record in 2023. Houston, who has been with the program since 2019, led the Pirates to two consecutive bowl appearances in 2021 and 2022 but struggled to maintain that success. ECU defensive coordinator Blake Harrell has been appointed as the interim head coach for the rest of the season. The university will begin a search for a permanent replacement, with potential candidates including LSU's Joe Sloan and Virginia Tech's Chris Marve among others. ECU athletic director Jon Gilbert cited the need for a leadership change to align with the program's high expectations. Houston's contract buyout will cost ECU approximately $3 million, which could be offset if he accepts another coaching position.