GREENVILLE - As the hour approaches for Saturday's season- opener against Virginia Tech in Charlotte, East Carolina football coach Skip Holtz is optimistic, excited and concerned.

He is starting a proven, talented, senior quarterback, Patrick Pinkney, but will be missing top tailback Dominique Lindsay (out for the season) and promising running back J.R. Rogers (ankle sprain).

Holtz has an experienced team overall with solid depth at several positions, which "excites" him. But several young players also will get tested in a BCS-bowl-type atmosphere.

One of the youngsters is Ben Ryan, a walk-on freshman place-kicker stepping in for sophomore Ben Hartman (upper leg injury).

Though inconsistent on some short kicks last year, Hartman booted two memorable winners: against North Carolina and against Boise State in the Hawaii Bowl.

With Hartman unable to kick, Ryan outdueled seven other candidates in the spring and has been accurate and long in preseason camp, booting one 50-yarder.

"He has really emerged,'' Holtz said. "I like his demeanor. He has a very strong leg. I've put pressure on him in practice, and he has responded favorably."

The Pirates hope they can get touchdowns rather than field goals against Virginia Tech, but that isn't expected to be easy.

Holtz said he read some troubling news -- Hokies defensive coordinator Bud Foster said this year's defense is "better than last year's, quicker and faster."

To amplify that point, Holtz noted that Virginia Tech has ranked fifth, first, first and fourth, respectively, in total defense the past four seasons.

Offensively, ECU has to prepare for two different styles of quarterback -- pro-type passer Sean Glennon and fast, elusive Tyrod Taylor, who can beat foes with his feet and arm.

ECU can present a dual look as well with Pinkney and pocket passer Rob Kass, but Holtz says Pinkney "has definitely earned" the starting role.

With four days before kickoff, and tension rising, Holtz will spend this week polishing the game plan, sharpening fundamentals, and stressing doing the "little things" that can make the difference in a big game.

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