James Madison Aims for Playoff Spot Against Rival App State

HARRISONBURG, Va. — The No. 24 James Madison Dukes will face off against the Appalachian State Mountaineers in a key Sun Belt showdown on Saturday, November 15, 2025. The Dukes are looking to cement their chances for a College Football Playoff ranking after starting the season strong with an 8-1 record, including a perfect 6-0 in conference play.

JMU’s only loss this season came against the Louisville Cardinals, who currently hold the No. 20 spot in the playoff rankings. Since that defeat, the Dukes have won seven consecutive games with an impressive average scoring margin of 15.8 points per game, ranking them ninth nationally.

The matchup has become a rivalry since JMU joined the FBS, and both teams are eager for a win. Appalachian State is struggling with a 4-5 overall record, having recently lost three straight games by a narrow 13 points combined against Coastal Carolina, Old Dominion, and Georgia Southern.

As of the latest betting lines, the Dukes are 21-point favorites against the Mountaineers, with an Over/Under of 53.5. The game will be broadcast on ESPN+ at 3:30 p.m. ET from Bridgeforth Stadium in Harrisonburg.

JMU coach Curt Cignetti expressed confidence in his team, highlighting their strong defensive performance this season. The Dukes currently rank eighth in total defense, allowing just 269.4 yards per game, and they are 12th in scoring defense, giving up only 16.9 points per game.

Key players for JMU include linebacker Trent Hendrick and quarterback Alonza Barnett III. Barnett has thrown for 1,786 yards and 16 touchdowns this season, with an additional 10 rushing touchdowns to his name. Barnett’s performance will be crucial in helping JMU secure a victory.

The Dukes appear well-positioned to win this matchup but will need to remain focused, especially as Appalachian State has proven competitive in recent years. JMU aims not only for a win but to bolster its standing as a potential playoff contender as the season heads into its final stretch.