2:33 pm
May 8

FCS Playoffs: #3 James Madison @ #2 Sam Houston State

Who will WIN this matchup?

#3 James Madison Dukes

@ #2 Sam Houston State Bearkats

 

Current odds:

James Madison Dukes: (-115)

Sam Houston State Bearkats: (-105)

 

The line for this game is James Madison by 1 point.

You can look at SHSU’s win against NDSU two ways, depending on what colored lens you’re viewing it through. 1) NDSU’s offense was nonexistent most of the game and was still in a position to win the game in the final minute. 2) If not for two special teams gaffes, the Bearkats would have blown the Bison out. Regardless of how you view it, there’s no denying SHSU earned a ton of respect in the quarterfinal win and proved its defense is legit against a power team.

The run defense will be put to the test again. JMU’s group of RBs is the best in the FCS. But what the Dukes possess that NDSU didn’t is good quarterback play. Cole Johnson is getting better every game. And the speed of WR Kris Thornton and the downfield play-making ability of Antwane Wells Jr. will make it tough to stack the box.

The Bearkats have never lost a home FCS playoff game. They’ll have the home-field crowd behind them. They have the best quarterback of the remaining four teams in Eric Schmid. And JMU may be down a starting cornerback with Wesley McCormick injuring his groin last week. With all of that said, JMU is on a mission in this bracket, and I think the Dukes have enough balance on offense and are strong enough on defense to get a narrow win.

4/10
Confidence
StreakSmarter Pick
#2 Sam Houston State Bearkats