James Madison Faces Western Kentucky in Bowl

Western Kentucky will face James Madison in the Boca Raton Bowl on December 18, marking a significant matchup for the Dukes, who seek their first bowl victory after losing their previous appearance last year. The Hilltoppers, with a record of 8-5, have a history of success in this bowl game, while James Madison enters with an 8-4 record but has lost its last two games, including a double-overtime defeat to Marshall. Western Kentucky's quarterback Caden Veltkamp, who has announced his intention to enter the transfer portal, will play despite the team's concerns over player availability due to transfers. James Madison will likely start redshirt junior Billy Atkins in place of the injured Alonza Barnett III. Both teams will rely heavily on their running games, with Western Kentucky's Elijah Young and James Madison's Jobi Malary expected to play pivotal roles. Coaches of both teams express optimism, with Western Kentucky looking to bounce back from a recent loss in the Conference USA Championship and James Madison aiming for a historic win.