Texas State Football Eyes Upset Over James Madison with Strong Ground Game
Texas State football is gearing up for a significant matchup against James Madison on Tuesday. The Bobcats enter this game as underdogs, a shift from being favored in previous contests. Leading the Sun Belt East, James Madison has maintained an undefeated record in conference play, showcasing a formidable defense that has allowed only 15 touchdowns this season, significantly fewer than their closest rivals.
Texas State’s Offensive Strengths
Under the guidance of head coach GJ Kinne, Texas State’s offense has excelled, averaging 36.1 points per game. Quarterback Brad Jackson has played a pivotal role, with impressive statistics that include:
- 1,786 passing yards
- Nine passing touchdowns
- Eight rushing touchdowns
- Completion rate of 69.7%
Despite these strong numbers, Jackson faces a challenging test against JMU’s top-ranked defense.
Key to Victory: Stop the Run
One of the primary challenges for Texas State will be containing James Madison’s ground game. Running back Wayne Knight ranks as the second-leading rusher in the Sun Belt, amassing 611 yards at an average of 6.6 yards per carry. The Dukes have collectively gained 1,706 rushing yards over seven games.
Texas State has shown resilience against the run, allowing an average of 4.3 yards per carry. The team’s defense will heavily rely on linebackers Ayden Jones and Treylin Payne, who are noted as top run defenders.
Offensive Strategy Against JMU
Although JMU’s quarterback Alonza Barnett III had a standout performance recently, he has struggled with consistency, failing to achieve a 60% completion rate in past games. Texas State’s defense might push JMU to rely on passing, thereby disrupting their offensive rhythm.
Set the Pace Early
To improve their chances, Texas State must capitalize on fast starts. The Dukes have a track record of slow beginnings, particularly on the road, as shown in their tight victory over Georgia State. Conversely, Texas State has built leads in nearly every game this season, which will be critical against a capable opponent.
Revitalize the Rushing Attack
The Bobcats’ game plan should also focus on involving running backs Lincoln Pare and Greg Burrell to create a balanced offense. Following a game where their rushing attack was stifled against Marshall, it is imperative for Texas State to diversify their offensive strategies. Coach Kinne emphasizes the need for near perfection and a balanced approach to contend with JMU’s impressive defensive capabilities.
As the game approaches, all eyes will be on Texas State to see if they can upset James Madison with a potent ground game and strategic execution.
