James Madison secures Sun Belt Championship amid CFP speculation

Published: Saturday, December 6, 2025 at 10:24 am

James Madison Dukes Claim Sun Belt Championship, Await CFP Fate

Harrisonburg, Virginia – The James Madison Dukes have etched their name in history, securing their first-ever Sun Belt Conference championship with a decisive 31-14 victory over the Troy Trojans. The win marks a milestone for the Dukes, who are in only their fourth season at the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) level.

The Dukes' offense was spearheaded by running back Wayne Knight, who delivered a career-high performance with 212 rushing yards, including a 73-yard touchdown run, the longest in Sun Belt title game history. Quarterback Alonza Barnett III contributed 85 rushing yards and a rushing touchdown, while also completing a passing touchdown. The Dukes' offensive prowess resulted in a total of 412 yards, with the rushing attack dominating with 318 yards.

On the defensive side, James Madison was relentless. The Dukes' defense recorded eight sacks, 14 tackles for loss, and four quarterback hurries, effectively disrupting Troy's offensive strategy. Defensive end Sahir West, the Sun Belt Freshman of the Year, led the charge with 10 tackles, three sacks, and a forced fumble. Linebacker Drew Spinogatti sealed the victory with a 30-yard fumble recovery for a touchdown in the fourth quarter. The Dukes' defense held Troy to a mere 177 total yards and limited their rushing attack to negative yardage.

The game remained competitive until the final minutes, with Troy briefly closing the gap. However, late scoring drives by Knight and Barnett, followed by Spinogatti's defensive touchdown, solidified James Madison's dominance.

With the championship win, James Madison maintains its No. 25 ranking in the College Football Playoff (CFP) standings, keeping their playoff hopes alive. The Dukes' fate now hinges on the outcome of the ACC championship game. A victory by James Madison would likely secure an automatic CFP berth as the highest-ranked Group-of-Five champion. Even if the Dukes do not win the ACC Championship, they still have an estimated 85% chance to make the 12-team field.

BNN's Perspective:

James Madison's remarkable season is a testament to the program's rapid growth and the competitive spirit of the Sun Belt Conference. While the Dukes' playoff chances are uncertain, their performance this season has undoubtedly elevated their profile and demonstrated their ability to compete at the highest level. Regardless of the final CFP outcome, James Madison has established itself as a force to be reckoned with in college football.

Keywords: James Madison Dukes, Sun Belt Conference, Championship, Wayne Knight, Alonza Barnett III, Sahir West, Drew Spinogatti, Troy Trojans, College Football Playoff, CFP, FBS, Football, NCAA, Virginia, Bob Chesney

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