Texas State University’s football team has experienced a series of close calls in its recent games, leading in the final quarter but ultimately falling short in their last three contests. As they prepare to face James Madison University (JMU) on Tuesday, the Bobcats will find themselves as the underdogs—a stark contrast to their status as favorites in prior matchups.
JMU is currently on top of the Sun Belt East standings, boasting an impressive undefeated record in conference play. Notably, the Dukes have the strongest scoring defense in the conference, allowing only 15 touchdowns in the season, seven fewer than the second-place team, Troy. Despite these odds, Texas State’s offense remains formidable under head coach GJ Kinne, averaging 36.1 points per game. Quarterback Brad Jackson has been instrumental, with eight rushing touchdowns, 1,786 passing yards, and nine passing touchdowns—all while maintaining a completion rate of 69.7%. However, facing JMU’s defense represents one of Jackson’s most significant challenges yet.
For Texas State to overcome the Dukes, they must focus on a few key strategies:
First and foremost, stopping the run is critical. JMU’s running back Wayne Knight is the conference’s second-leading rusher, amassing 611 yards with an impressive average of 6.6 yards per carry. The Dukes as a team have racked up 1,706 rushing yards through seven games. Texas State’s defense, known for its vulnerability, has shown promise against the run by allowing just 4.3 yards per carry. Linebackers Ayden Jones and Treylin Payne are essential in this effort, both recognized as top run defenders by Pro Football Focus.
Additionally, it will be vital for the Bobcats to start quickly and maintain momentum throughout the game. JMU has displayed resilience late in games, benefiting from second-half comebacks in two of their last three outings. However, their tendency to start slow, particularly in away games, poses an opportunity. In a narrow victory against Georgia State, JMU struggled, ultimately finishing with only 74 passing yards.
Texas State has excelled at establishing early leads, having only faltered at halftime once this season in a game against Arizona State. This ability to jump ahead will be crucial to their approach against JMU, but sustaining an advantage into the second half is equally important.
Lastly, it will be essential for running backs Lincoln Pare and Greg Burrell to find their rhythm. A recent game against Marshall saw the Bobcats’ rushing attack stifled, forcing Jackson to take on more of the offensive load, which he met with a career-high passing performance. However, facing a JMU defense that excels against the run—allowing just 74.3 yards per game—Texas State must avoid putting too much pressure on Jackson.
Coach Kinne emphasizes the need for a “near-perfect” game against JMU, encouraging a balanced offensive strategy. The contributions of running backs Pare and Burrell, along with a solid performance from the offensive line, could play a pivotal role in overcoming the Dukes and achieving a much-needed victory.
With determination and strategic execution, the Bobcats hope to turn the tide and secure a win, bringing a fresh wave of optimism for the remainder of their season.