In 1980 , under new head coach Ed Emory , the Pirates had their first losing season since 1971 .
In 1977 , ECU left the Southern Conference and had three more winning seasons as a football independent .
In 1980 , under new head coach Ed Emory , the ECU had ECU 's first losing season since 1971 .
In 1977 , ECU left the Southern Conference and had three more winning seasons as a football independent .