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Tulane Opens AAC Play With Statement Win

  • Writer: Bayou State Media
    Bayou State Media
  • Sep 27
  • 2 min read
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Photo By: TULANE ATHLETICS

Tulane opened conference play with authority Saturday afternoon, defeating ECU 38–17 at Yulman Stadium. The Green Wave improved to 4–1 overall and 1–0 in the AAC, showcasing balance on both sides of the ball in a performance that left little doubt about who controlled the game.


This wasn’t a nail-biter. Tulane dictated tempo, leaned on its playmakers, and consistently won at the line of scrimmage. From the opening drive to the final whistle, the Green Wave executed in all three phases.


First Quarter: Quick Control

Tulane wasted no time setting the tone. Running back Makhi Hughes powered through the ECU front for an early touchdown, giving the Wave a 7–0 lead. The defense immediately followed by forcing a punt, and by the end of the first quarter, Tulane had established both rhythm and field position.


Second Quarter: Gordon Takes Over

The passing game came alive in the second quarter behind quarterback Ty Keyes Retzlaff. His connection with wideout Chris Gordon proved unstoppable, with Gordon hauling in two touchdowns before halftime. Tulane’s defense kept ECU from mounting any consistent response, holding the Pirates to just a field goal in the first half. At the break, Tulane led 21–3 and looked firmly in control.


Third Quarter: Defense Delivers

The Green Wave defense owned the third quarter. Tulane’s front seven racked up four of their six total sacks during this stretch, suffocating ECU’s attempts to rally. Retzlaff added a rushing touchdown to extend the lead, and while ECU finally found the end zone late in the frame, the game’s momentum never wavered.


Fourth Quarter: Closing Strong

Tulane finished the job with more balance. Gordon added his third touchdown of the day, sealing his breakout performance. The Wave defense added one more sack and forced ECU into long third downs, keeping the Pirates from threatening late. Tulane closed it out efficiently, rotating younger players into the game while maintaining control.


What Went Right

Tulane’s victory was powered by execution in key areas:

  • Explosive offense: Gordon’s three-touchdown performance gave Tulane a reliable downfield weapon, while Retzlaff’s dual-threat play extended drives and kept ECU off balance.

  • Defensive pressure: Six total sacks highlighted a dominant pass rush that never let ECU settle into rhythm.

  • Balance: The Green Wave scored on the ground and through the air, keeping the attack unpredictable and efficient.


Final Thoughts: A Complete Performance

Tulane’s 38–17 win wasn’t about survival — it was about setting a standard. The Green Wave protected home field, opened conference play with authority, and proved they can dictate terms on both sides of the ball.


At 4–1 overall and 1–0 in the AAC, Tulane has positioned itself as a serious contender in the conference. If the Green Wave continue to pair offensive firepower with relentless defense, they won’t just compete in the AAC, they’ll set the pace.

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