The James Madison (JMU) Dukes want to be rewarded for their success at the FBS level. Current NCAA rules include a two-year period where programs that move from FCS competition to the FBS are not bowl-eligible for two years, something that JMU has contested multiple times now. Their latest plea for bowl eligibility notably includes this scathing statement:
“If we don’t prohibit postseason participation opportunities for institutions that elect not to follow our rules, why would we restrict them for a school that has not only followed all the rules but has exceeded all expectations in doing so?”
Unbeaten JMU sent a letter to the NCAA Board of Directors on Monday requesting relief from NCAA bylaws restricting transitioning teams from bowl participation. Here's a copy of the letter: pic.twitter.com/rA4e3j9gRb
— Nicole Auerbach (@NicoleAuerbach) November 7, 2023
That particular quote is interesting at the moment because of the Michigan cheating scandal sweeping the college football landscape. Plenty of other schools are bending the rules, but that seems like a direct shot at one of the NCAA’s premier football programs. That was just one of many valid points that James Madison University made.
The Dukes also made sure to highlight their standing as one of the seven remaining undefeated teams this season. They’re also on a 12-game winning streak that has pushed them to 15-3 against FBS foes. Simply making a bowl game seems insulting at this point, with JMU’s merits currently worthy of a New Year’s Six bowl.
Can James Madison Finish the Season Undefeated?
Regardless of what the NCAA decides (they probably won’t change their mind), James Madison’s only concern is finishing the season undefeated. The Dukes have three regular-season games remaining, two of which are at home. It’s a bit early for the final two, but JMU is favored in all three contests.
First up is a date with UConn (1-8) this Saturday, a game that should be an easy win. After that, the Dukes host Appalachian State (5-4), a team that’s tougher but shouldn’t pose too great of a threat. Lastly, JMU will contend with Coastal Carolina on the road, the biggest hurdle remaining on paper. An undefeated team deserves a noteworthy bowl game, so we’ll see if the NCAA comes around on the Dukes if they run the table.
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