Game Preview: GS set to host ranked opponent for second straight season

DJ Cadden, Sports Editor

History: Georgia Southern is 7-1 all-time against James Madison, including seven straight wins over the Dukes.

Last Week: Georgia Southern fell to rival Georgia State last weekend, 41-33.

Quarterback Kyle Vantrease threw for 359 yards, but also tossed four costly interceptions. Khaleb Hood was his favorite target for the day, hauling in 11 receptions for 120 yards and a touchdown.

Defensively, it was a struggle for the Eagles as they gave up their second highest scoring output all season. However, Justin Ellis starred with 2.5 tackles for loss and a sack.

Scouting Report: JMU has quickly established themselves as one of the most balanced teams in America. The Dukes are elite on both offense and defense, which will create problems for the Eagles.

The Dukes boast the top run defense in college football, allowing just 41 yards per game. JMU also ranks within the top-25 in America in passing yards allowed per game.

Offensively, quarterback Todd Centeio has been the catalyst for JMU. The sixth-year graduate transfer averages nearly 230 yards per game, which ranks within the top-30 in all of FBS.

Bottom Line: Ball. Security.

The Eagles turned the ball over five times against GSU and still found themselves with a fighting chance to beat the Panthers. If the offense can clean up the sloppiness, then the Eagles might just pull off the unthinkable.

Prediction: GS plays giant-killer again, takes down ranked JMU 23-14