Image courtesy of JMU Athletics Communications

By Bennett Conlin

JMU’s 2024 football schedule is here, and man, the finish to the season is electric. Bob Chesney’s first season in Harrisonburg will largely be defined by the team’s success in November.

Aug. 31 at Charlotte

The Dukes open the year against an AAC foe. It’s a winnable road game to open the Chesney era.

Sept. 7 vs. Gardner-Webb

The Dukes shouldn’t have much issue against their lone FCS opponent.

Sept. 21 at UNC

A bye week before UNC is a plus. The Dukes will have plenty of time to prep for their one Power Five opponent.

Sept. 28 vs. Ball State

All things considered, September’s schedule isn’t too bad. This will be Family Weekend, likely giving parents ideal weather for their visit.

Oct. 5 at ULM

ULM struggled in 2023 and isn’t expected to be a West contender in 2024.

Oct. 10 vs. Coastal Carolina

A Thursday night home game! Not ideal from an attendance standpoint, but this should still draw a decent crowd and it’ll get a decent TV slot. Lots to like about having weeknight game.

Oct. 19 at Georgia Southern

The Dukes are 0-5 all-time in Statesboro.

Oct. 26 vs. Southern Miss

The Dukes’ other game against a SBC West team comes at home against Southern Miss.

Nov. 9 vs. Georgia State

JMU has Halloween weekend off, a chance for the players to “rest.”

Nov. 16 at ODU

Rivalry matchup in mid-November. We love to see it.

Nov. 23 at App State

ODU and App State in consecutive weeks?? Goodness. It’s going to be a brutal November for the Dukes.

Nov. 30 vs. Marshall

The regular-season finale comes against Marshall, another competitive SBC East foe. The final three games of the season look like huge tests.