Setting the Stage: East Carolina

Mike Kelly-Lawson against Rice A shift of importance may happen in the future, but Charlotte's focus in the present is simple.

East Carolina represents many things: another chance against an in-state opponent; a possible, blossoming rivalry and a chance for the 49ers to make greater connections with a third consecutive sellout crowd.

But the Pirates are the second American Athletic Conference matchup on a slate that has been Charlotte's primary focus in its long-standing goal of a conference title.

That's where the focus lies most.

"It's league game No. 2, that's what's important," Biff Poggi said. "It takes years to make a rivalry, this is a league game. I have a lot of respect for East…