Dukes opened the season (August 30) with a 45-10 win over Weber StatePhoto: JMU Athletics
James Madison set a powerful tone for the 2025 season, whooping Weber State 45‑10 in their opener at Bridgeforth Stadium yesterday, August 30.
Both Madison quarterbacks shined: QB Alonza Barnett III, coming back from an ACL injury, ran in the first touchdown and later connected on a 20‑yard pass to WR Isaiah Alston. QB Matthew Sluka added to the surge after stepping in, scoring on the ground and then throwing a touchdown to WR Landon Ellis.
The ground game was equally dominant, with RBs George Pettaway and Wayne Knight accounting for 188 of JMU’s 313 rushing yards. The Dukes overtook the Wildcats in total offense by a massive 458‑148 margin. Weber State managed a late first-half touchdown, but JMU pulled away with field goals and added late touchdowns from Knight (a 59-yard dash) and QB JC Evans.
James Madison hits the road for its next game against Louisville on Friday, September 5 at 7 p.m. ET. This non-conference matchup will be a true early test as they tuck away the home opener and head into challenging territory.