JMU football opens its 2024 home schedule on Saturday against Gardner-Webb. The Dukes have dominated their two FCS opponents since moving up to the FBS, beating Norfolk State and Bucknell by a combined 101-10 over the past two seasons.
Saturday’s game against the Runnin’ Bulldogs shouldn’t be too difficult. Gardner-Webb opened its season with a 21-20 loss to Wofford. JMU’s coaching staff is adamant that the Dukes are not going to be overlooked by any opponent, but it would be a surprise if it were a close game against a team projected to finish fifth in the nine-team Big South/OVC.
probability
DraftKings projects JMU as a 33-point favorite against Gardner-Webb University, with a 54-point total.
Spread: JMU -33
Total: 54
JMU is 1-0 against the spread this year after a touchdown advantage against Charlotte, and that game ended with the score total being under.
pick
After a sluggish start against Charlotte, JMU played strong in the second half, with the Dukes outscoring the 49ers 21-0 at halftime.
Look for the Dukes to ride that momentum on Saturday, get off to a fast start and take a commanding lead over Gardner-Webb. JMU rotated players heavily against Charlotte, and given the disparity in talent between JMU and Gardner-Webb, Saturday shouldn’t be too different. JMU head coach Bob Chesney will want to spread out practices across the roster to build depth before the road showdown with North Carolina on September 21.
JMU’s rushing attack faltered in Week 1, but nothing will boost the offensive line’s confidence like a mid-major FCS opponent, so look for Ayo Addei to eclipse 100 yards rushing for the first time in his JMU career as the Dukes cruise to victory.
Defensively, JMU’s depth should give Gardner-Webb a hard time for much of the game, but don’t be surprised if JMU slows down in the second half and wins by closer to 40 points instead of 50 or 60.
Prediction: JMU -33