Graphic courtesy of JMU Athletics Communications

By Bennett Conlin (This content was originally published in our newsletter)

Last game – The Dukes rolled High Point last weekend in their first home game of the season. JMU gets a much easier test this week. 

How bad is Canisius? – JMU is still allowing children to attend this game, but we’d advise parents to shield their eyes. Canisius isn’t thaaat bad, but its early-season schedule is exceedingly difficult, and the team is not near the level of a national title contender. The Golden Griffins are 0-3 on the season and have lost those games by a combined score of 52-20. They lost to Robert Morris 11-10 in OT, but fell to Notre Dame 21-4 and Northwestern 20-6. The Wildcats are considered a national title threat. 

What to expect – JMU should win handily, as the Dukes are more easily compared to Notre Dame and Northwestern than Robert Morris. Expect well over 10 goals, a strong defensive showing and a 4-1 record once Friday’s game winds down.