JMU football, Armed Forces Bowl, Air Force, history

James Madison Dukes have a remarkable football history. They are competing in their first FBS postseason game, the Armed Forces Bowl.

The James Madison football team has a rich history of success, with two FCS national titles, appearances in two other playoff finals, and a Pro Football Hall of Famer in Charles Haley. Last season, the Dukes made a remarkable transition from the Championship Subdivision to the Bowl Subdivision, winning the Sun Belt's East Division and finishing with an 8-3 record.

Now, the 11-1 Dukes are set to make history once again as they compete in their first FBS postseason game, the Armed Forces Bowl against 8-4 Air Force. This game represents another milestone for the program, and the players are eager to make their mark.

"We made history, and it's a great thing to be a part of," said All-America defensive end Jalen Green. "This year, and last year, we'll never forget these years of our lives. We'll go on to tell our kids about these years. We've made so many memories and been a part of so many good ballgames. It's just a blessing to be a part of."

The Dukes' goal is not just to participate in their first bowl game but to win it and secure a top-25 ranking at the end of the season. This would be a remarkable achievement for a second-year FBS school.

The team faces a tough challenge in Air Force, a team that has had its own share of success this season. Air Force's quarterback, Zac Larrier, leads a run-first, triple-option offense that presents a unique challenge for the JMU defense. Additionally, Air Force ranks second nationally in rushing, while JMU boasts the top rushing defense in the country.

The matchup between JMU's versatile offense and Air Force's rugged defense promises to be an exciting battle. Despite facing adversity with the departure of their head coach and key players entering the transfer portal, the Dukes have remained focused and united, determined to finish what they started.

"For me, every day I'm out here I'm really just grateful I get to play football for another day," said strong safety Francis Meehan. "I think the opportunity we have to be on a national stage is something that's really good for not only us as players but this program as a whole. To be a part of this team, the team that's made the transition to the FBS, that's been in the top 25, that's set these really high standards, is really good. I'm so grateful to be a part of it and just really happy I can do it one more time."

The Armed Forces Bowl represents an opportunity for the Dukes to cap off their historic season with a victory and further solidify their place in college football history. The players are determined to make the most of this opportunity and leave a lasting legacy for the program.