- Game: James Madison Dukes vs Troy Trojans
- Date: Saturday, September 16, 2023
- Location: Veterans Memorial Stadium in Troy, AL
- TV: ESPN+
- Odds/Point Spread: Trojans (-1)
- Total/Over-Under: 49.5
The James Madison Dukes (2-0) will face off against the Troy Trojans (1-1) in an exciting game at Veterans Memorial Stadium on Saturday, September 16, 2023. The Trojans are currently favored by 1 point, with a total of 49.5 points expected to be scored in the game.
James Madison enters the game with a perfect 2-0 record for the season. In their previous game against the Virginia Cavaliers, they secured a narrow 36-35 victory. Quarterback Jordan McCloud had a solid performance, completing 20 of 31 passes for 224 yards and 1 touchdown. Running back Ty Son Lawton led the ground attack with 79 yards on 8 carries. Overall, the Dukes gained 395 yards on 66 plays, rushing for 167 yards and passing for 228 yards. Defensively, the Dukes allowed only 18 rushing yards on 35 attempts and 377 passing yards on 26 completions.
So far this season, the James Madison Dukes have been averaging an impressive 37.0 points per game. Their rushing attack has been dominant, averaging 214.0 yards per game, ranking 26th in Division 1. They have accumulated a total of 831 yards and have scored 4 passing touchdowns and 5 rushing touchdowns. The Dukes have gained 40 first downs but have committed 11 penalties for 81 yards. They have turned the ball over once.
Defensively, the Dukes have given up a total of 523 passing yards, placing them 99th in the country. They have allowed an average of 261.5 passing yards per game and have a completion percentage against of 71.4%. Overall, they have surrendered an average of 301.5 yards per game and have given up 2 passing touchdowns and 3 rushing touchdowns. Their run defense has been strong, allowing only 1.2 yards per rush and 40.0 rushing yards per game. In two games, they have given up a total of 80 rushing yards. The Dukes are currently ranked 56th in Division 1, allowing an average of 19.0 points per game.
Make sure to check out our College Football Expert Picks for this game.
The Troy Trojans head into this matchup with a 1-1 record for the season. In their previous game against the Kansas State Wildcats, they suffered a disappointing 42-13 loss. Quarterback Gunnar Watson completed 17 of 32 passes for 167 yards and 1 touchdown, but also threw 1 interception. Running back Kimani Vidal had a decent performance, rushing for 83 yards on 17 carries. The Trojans gained a total of 286 yards on 66 plays, averaging 4.3 yards per play. They rushed for 70 yards on 28 attempts, averaging 2.5 yards per carry. Defensively, they gave up 147 rushing yards on 38 attempts and 250 passing yards on 21 completions.
The Troy Trojans have been scoring an average of 30.5 points per game and accumulating 413.0 yards per game. They have gained a total of 65 penalty yards on 8 infractions. They have thrown 2 interceptions and lost 4 fumbles, but have managed to earn 40 first downs. In the passing game, they have thrown for a total of 414 yards and an average of 207.0 passing yards per game, ranking 91st in the country. Their rushing attack has been strong, averaging 206.0 yards per game and gaining a total of 412 yards.
Defensively, the Trojans have allowed a total of 251 rushing yards and 5 rushing touchdowns this season, averaging 125.5 rushing yards per game. They have also given up 193.0 passing yards per game, allowing 3 passing touchdowns. Their defense has recovered 0 fumbles and recorded 2 interceptions. The Trojans defense has played 129 snaps, giving them a ranking of 63rd in the country. They are currently allowing an average of 36.0 points per game, placing them 117th in Division 1. In two games, they have surrendered a total of 72 points.
Who will win tonight’s game between the James Madison Dukes and Troy Trojans? Check out Guy’s Pick below to find out.
The Pick: Take the Trojans -1
