On Saturday, September 12, the James Madison University Dukes will host Wagner at Bridgeforth Stadium, with kickoff set for 3:30 p.m., marking the first-ever meeting between the two programs and launching a busy early-season slate.
Season Opener Highlights
The Dukes entered the game riding a 20-13 victory over Liberty, a win that featured scoring on the first four possessions and a defensive effort that limited the Flames to just 91 rushing yards, the lowest total of the contest.
Key contributors included running back George Pettaway, who powered a 7-yard rush, and wide receiver Corey Scott, who added a 5-yard reception, while safety Jayon Harvey led the defense with eight tackles, a forced fumble and a crucial pass breakup in the fourth quarter.
Wagner, now 1-1, opened its season with a 28-7 loss to Robert Morris before rebounding with a 31-7 win over Southern Connecticut State, setting the stage for its inaugural clash with JMU.
The doubleheader continues next week when the Dukes travel to San Diego State for their first road game, a 10 p.m. ET start on The CW, testing the team’s ability to translate home success to the road.
The Bridgeforth showdown is sponsored by Pepsi and will be part of a Heroes Day celebration presented by Urgie’s Cheesesteaks, with ESPN+ providing the broadcast.
JMU’s home field advantage is reinforced by a 23-3 record since transitioning to the FBS and a flawless 1-0 mark at Bridgeforth this season, a trend that aligns with seven straight season opener wins since 2020 and an average of just 7.1 points allowed per game in those contests.
Coach Billy Napier, the fifth JMU head coach to achieve a debut victory, joins a lineage that includes Joe Purzycki, Alex Wood, Mike Houston and Bob Chesney, underscoring the program’s tradition of strong starts under new leadership.
The Dukes also remain the only Sun Belt Conference team to earn votes in the AP Poll after Week 1, highlighting their growing national recognition.