James Madison Wins First Bowl Game

James Madison University (JMU) secured its first bowl victory in program history by defeating Western Kentucky 27-17 in the Boca Raton Bowl. Backup quarterback Billy Atkins, filling in for the injured Alonza Barnett III, threw for 181 yards and a crucial 21-yard touchdown pass to Taylor Thompson in the fourth quarter. JMU's defense was pivotal, forcing three turnovers and limiting WKU to just 16 rushing yards. Quarterback JC Evans contributed with a touchdown run and a touchdown pass, showcasing a two-quarterback system that helped the Dukes maintain offensive momentum. Western Kentucky's Caden Veltkamp threw for 302 yards and two touchdowns but struggled with turnovers, which ultimately cost his team the game. This victory marks a significant milestone for JMU, which is transitioning from the Football Championship Subdivision and improved to 9-4 under first-year head coach Bob Chesney.