A heated in-state rivalry game between East Carolina and N.C. State in the Military Bowl erupted into a sideline brawl just as the Pirates were about to secure a 26-21 victory. With seconds remaining on the clock, running back Rahjai Harris carried the ball up the middle, setting off a chaotic scene near the East Carolina sideline.

The altercation allegedly began when East Carolina receiver Yannick Smith swiped a towel from N.C. State defensive back Tamarcus Cooley. Cooley reacted by pushing Smith to the ground, prompting two other East Carolina players to intervene. The ensuing melee resulted in a delay of several minutes and the ejection of eight players. One official was even left with a bloodied face amidst the chaos.

N.C. State coach Dave Doeren expressed his embarrassment over the incident, apologizing to East Carolina for his team's behavior. He characterized the brawl as a “terrible response” to the initial towel-snatching incident.

East Carolina coach Blake Harrell echoed Doeren's sentiments, condemning the violence and stating that there was “no place in sports for that.” Harrell also appeared to issue a challenge to other in-state universities, suggesting they add East Carolina to their schedules instead of just recruiting their players. He highlighted the existing rivalry with N.C. State, emphasizing their close proximity and the competitive spirit between the two programs.

With the win, East Carolina finished their season 8-5, while N.C. State concluded with a 6-7 record. The rivalry, however, seems far from over, with both teams scheduled to face off again next season.