JMU football opens its 2024 home schedule Saturday against Gardner-Webb. The Dukes have demolished their two FCS opponents since making the FBS leap, outscoring Norfolk State and Bucknell by a combined 101-10 the last two seasons.

Saturday’s game against the Runnin’ Bulldogs shouldn’t be much harder. Gardner-Webb started the season with a 21-20 loss to Wofford. And while JMU’s coaches are adamant the Dukes can’t overlook any opponent, it would be a surprise if JMU finds itself in a close game with a team predicted to finish fifth in the nine-team Big South/OVC.

The Odds

DraftKings lists JMU as a 33-point betting favorite against Gardner-Webb with a total listed at 54 points. 

The spread: JMU -33

The total: 54

JMU is 1-0 against the spread this year, covering as a touchdown favorite against Charlotte. That game went under the point total. 

The pick

After a sluggish start against Charlotte, JMU played a strong second half. The Dukes outscored the 49ers 21-0 after halftime.

Look for the Dukes to build on that momentum Saturday, starting fast and taking a commanding lead over Gardner-Webb. JMU rotated players significantly against Charlotte, and Saturday shouldn’t be much different given the talent gap between JMU and Gardner-Webb. JMU head coach Bob Chesney will want to spread reps around his roster, developing depth before a Sept. 21 road showdown with North Carolina.

JMU’s rushing attack sputtered in Week 1, but nothing helps boost an offensive line’s confidence like a middling FCS opponent. Look for Ayo Adeyi to surpass 100 rushing yards for the first time in his JMU career, as the Dukes cruise to a victory.

Defensively, JMU’s depth should keep Gardner-Webb uncomfortable for much of the game. Don’t be shocked if JMU takes its foot off the gas in the second half, though and wins by closer to 40 points rather than 50 or 60.

The pick: JMU -33