Head Coach: Curt Cignetti, 5th year: 41-8, 13th year overall: 108-34
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James Madison Dukes Preview 2023
The James Madison Dukes are coming off a successful 2022 season, where they went 11-3 and finished second in the Sun Belt East Division. They were also ranked as high as #25 in the AP Top 25 poll.
The Dukes return a number of key players from last year's team, including quarterback Todd Centeio, running back Kaelon Black, and wide receiver Reggie Brown. Centeio threw for 3,032 yards and 20 touchdowns last season, while Black rushed for 1,212 yards and 12 touchdowns. Brown caught 66 passes for 954 yards and 10 touchdowns.
The Dukes also have a strong defense, led by linebacker Jailin Walker and defensive back Brent Austin. Walker had 102 tackles and 4.5 sacks last season, while Austin had 6 interceptions.
The Dukes will face a tough schedule in 2023, with games against Virginia, Troy, Utah State, Marshall, and Coastal Carolina. However, they also have some favorable matchups, including home games against South Alabama, Georgia Southern, and Appalachian State.
I predict that the Dukes will win 9-10 games in 2023. They have the talent to be a contender in the Sun Belt, but they will need to stay healthy and avoid any major upsets.
Key Players
- Todd Centeio, QB: 3,032 yards, 20 touchdowns, 6 interceptions (2022)
- Kaelon Black, RB: 1,212 yards, 12 touchdowns (2022)
- Reggie Brown, WR: 66 catches, 954 yards, 10 touchdowns (2022)
- Jailin Walker, LB: 102 tackles, 4.5 sacks (2022)
- Brent Austin, DB: 6 interceptions (2022)
Team Statistics
- Total Offense: 425.8 yards per game (2022)
- Total Defense: 324.8 yards per game (2022)
- Points Scored: 32.8 points per game (2022)
- Points Allowed: 23.0 points per game (2022)
Prediction
I predict that the Dukes will win 9-10 games in 2023. They have the talent to be a contender in the Sun Belt, but they will need to stay healthy and avoid any major upsets.