The James Madison Dukes, ranked as one of the stronger teams in the Sun Belt Conference, will face the Ball State Cardinals from the MAC in a non-conference matchup. James Madison comes into the game with a perfect 3-0 record, riding the momentum of a huge 70-50 victory over North Carolina. Led by quarterback Alonza Barnett, the Dukes’ offense has been nearly unstoppable, averaging over 40 points per game. On the ground, James Madison has found success with their balanced attack, averaging nearly six yards per carry.

Ball State, on the other hand, has struggled this season. They hold a 1-2 record after a close 37-34 loss to Central Michigan, in which their defense allowed over 530 yards. Offensively, quarterback Kadin Semonza has shown flashes of potential, but the team has yet to find a consistent rhythm, particularly on defense, where they’ve allowed over 44 points per game.

The key to this game will be whether Ball State can slow down the high-powered James Madison offense. The Cardinals’ defense, which ranks near the bottom in several statistical categories, will need to step up to keep the game within reach. Expect James Madison to test Ball State’s secondary early, with their dual-threat quarterback capable of making plays both on the ground and through the air. With the Dukes entering as 20.5-point favorites, a blowout could be on the horizon unless Ball State finds answers on both sides of the ball.