JMU football is 7-1 and well on its way to a bowl game. The Dukes have bigger focuses than their December destination — a Sun Belt title remains up for grabs — but let’s look ahead at who the Dukes could play in the postseason.
Here’s what some experts say about JMU’s likely bowl matchups as of Nov. 2.
PFSN
JMU at Ole Miss in the first-round of the College Football Playoffs. Yes, PFSN has the Dukes in the 12-team playoff field as the No. 12 seed. It would be a massive test for the Dukes, as Ole Miss is 2-0 against G5 teams with a 63-7 win over Georgia State and a 45-10 win over Tulane.
It won’t come as a shock, but this is by far the most thrilling projection out there for the Dukes.
ESPN
Mark Schlabach: JMU vs. ECU in the Myrtle Beach Bowl on Dec. 19
Kyle Bonagura: JMU vs. Memphis in the Birmingham Bowl on Dec. 29
Both of these matchups would be fascinating. ECU and Memphis are two of the best teams in the American Conference. Either game would be an elite G5 matchup during the holiday season.
Athlon Sports’ Steve Lassan
JMU vs. Toledo in the Cure Bowl in Orlando, Florida, on Dec. 17.
This matchup would involve two spectacular G5 defenses. The Rockets are just 4-4 right now, but three of the four losses are by one possession. It’d be an interesting game.
HERO Sports’ Colton Pool
JMU vs. Central Michigan in the Cure Bowl on Dec. 17.
Meh. This one isn’t all that appealing. The Chippewas are 5-4 with blowout losses to Pitt and Michigan. A showdown with ECU, Memphis, or Toledo is more entertaining on paper. A trip to Orlando isn’t bad, though.
CBS Sports’ Brad Crawford
JMU vs. Western Kentucky in the New Orleans Bowl on Dec. 23.
A bowl rematch! While the matchup isn’t that exciting since it happened last season, the location is awesome. Playing in the New Orleans Bowl would be fun and make for an exciting trip for fans. WKU’s high-octane offense makes for enjoyable viewing.
Photo courtesy of JMU Athletics Communications


Leave a Reply