As Week 8 of the 2025 regular season unfolds, the Old Dominion Monarchs head to Harrisonburg, VA to play the James Madison Dukes. The game will take place at the Bridgeforth Stadium/Zane Showker Field, with kickoff scheduled for 3:30 PM on October 18th. Fans can catch the action live on ESNU. Old Dominion enters the contest with a 4-2 record, demonstrating strong performances at home but experiencing challenges on the road, evident from their 1-2 away record. They recently suffered a loss to Marshall Thundering Herd, 48-24, in their previous game. However, earlier in the season, they secured a decisive 47-7 victory over Coastal Carolina. James Madison, with a 5-1 record, has displayed remarkable consistency, especially in conference games with a perfect 3-0 record. Their most recent victory was against Louisiana-Lafayette Ragin’ Cajuns, winning 24-14. The Dukes’ home advantage and current form, including a recent win streak, position them as a tough opponent for the Monarchs.
James Madison vs Old Dominion At a Glance
- Game Location: Bridgeforth Stadium/Zane Showker Field in Harrisonburg, VA
- Weather Forecast: Expect sunny weather, ideal for an outdoor game
- Current Records: Old Dominion Monarchs stand at 4-2, James Madison Dukes at 5-1
- Conference Standings: Both teams are part of the Sun Belt Conference
- Television Broadcast: Catch the game on ESNU
- Betting Odds: James Madison is favored at -127 on the moneyline, with a spread of -2.5
James Madison Dukes Prepare to Host Old Dominion Monarchs
Old Dominion Offense Overview
The Old Dominion Monarchs are looking to make a statement with their offense in the upcoming game against the James Madison Dukes. The team will need to rely heavily on their passing attack to penetrate a Dukes defense that ranks 5th in interceptions this season. Establishing a consistent ground game will be crucial to balance the offensive strategy.
Key Offensive Players
The Monarchs’ offensive unit will be led by their standout quarterback, whose performance will be pivotal in determining the team’s success. Additionally, the wide receivers will need to create separation against a solid Dukes secondary. The offensive line must be at their best to provide ample protection and open up running lanes.
Old Dominion Defensive Outlook
Defensively, the Monarchs face the daunting task of containing a James Madison rushing attack ranked 15th nationally. The Monarchs’ front seven will play a critical role in disrupting the Dukes’ offensive rhythm. Limiting big plays and forcing turnovers could swing momentum in their favor.
Defensive Standouts
The Monarchs will look to their experienced linebackers to lead the charge against James Madison’s rushing offense. The secondary must remain vigilant to counter any passing threats, especially given the Dukes’ ability to convert on first downs. Defensive ends will need to apply pressure and potentially capitalize on any mistakes from the Dukes’ quarterback.
Injury Impact
Old Dominion’s depth chart may be tested if key players are sidelined due to injuries. Evaluating the injury list will be essential as the Monarchs prepare for their contest against a physically demanding opponent. The coaching staff will need to make strategic adjustments to accommodate any absences.
Coaching Strategy
Old Dominion’s coaching staff will need to devise a game plan that maximizes their team’s strengths while mitigating James Madison’s advantages. Emphasizing disciplined play and minimizing penalties will be crucial for the Monarchs. Special teams performance could also be a deciding factor in this matchup.
Betting Trends for Old Dominion
- Old Dominion has struggled on the road, making a strong performance against James Madison essential.
- In games with totals set at 50 or more, Old Dominion’s outcomes have varied, adding an unpredictable element to the contest.
- The Monarchs have a history of bouncing back after losses, which could provide motivation against the Dukes.
Old Dominion Monarchs: A Monarch’s Mission on the Road
Offensive Performance
Old Dominion’s offensive unit is currently ranked 36th in the nation, with 205 points scored this season. Their passing game ranks 52nd with 1,503 yards, while their ground attack is notably stronger, ranking 13th with 1,437 rushing yards.
The Monarchs’ ability to move the chains has been a key component, securing 134 first downs, which places them 25th in the rankings. This balanced approach has contributed to their competitive edge in various games this season.
Defensive Standouts
Defensively, Old Dominion has allowed 121 points, situating them at the 67th position nationally. They excel at applying pressure on opposing quarterbacks, tallying 14 sacks, which ranks 12th overall.
Their secondary has been opportunistic, intercepting 5 passes, good for 6th in the rankings. Additionally, the defense has been adept at forcing turnovers, recovering 7 fumbles, which is the 2nd best in the nation.
Recent Game Insights
In their recent outing, Old Dominion suffered a 48-24 defeat at the hands of Marshall. Despite the loss, they managed to outpass Marshall with 266 passing yards compared to Marshall’s 222.
However, their ground game was outmatched, with Marshall rushing for 227 yards against Old Dominion’s 173. Turnovers played a crucial role, as Old Dominion committed 4 fumbles and 2 interceptions.
Key Players to Watch
Quarterback Colton Joseph has been a pivotal player, amassing 1,481 passing yards and 13 touchdowns, making him a standout in the league. On the ground, Trequan Jones leads the rushing attack with 477 yards and 4 touchdowns.
Wide receiver Na’eem Abdul-Rahim Gladding has been a reliable target, with 25 receptions, 366 yards, and 5 touchdowns. These key players will be essential for Old Dominion’s success in upcoming games.
Betting Trends
- O/U – After Loss: Last 4 Games (2024–2025) → 4-0 (100.0%)
- ATS – As Underdog: Last 21 Games (2022–2025) → 16-5 (76.2%)
- SU – Home Games: Last 3 Games (2025) → 3-0 (100.0%)
- ATS – Away Games: Last 24 Games (2021–2025) → 17-7 (70.8%)
- O/U – As Favorite: Last 6 Games (2024–2025) → 5-1 (83.3%)
- O/U – Home Games: Last 6 Games (2024–2025) → 5-1 (83.3%)
- O/U – All Games: Last 9 Games (2024–2025) → 7-2 (77.8%)
- O/U – Totals ≥ 50: Last 9 Games (2024–2025) → 7-2 (77.8%)
- ATS – After Win: Last 23 Games (2021–2025) → 15-8 (65.2%)
- SU – All Games: Last 5 Games (2025) → 4-1 (80.0%)
James Madison vs Old Dominion Prediction: James Madison -2.5
James Madison has a strong home record this season at 3-0 and has been effective in conference play with a 3-0 record. The Dukes’ ability to perform under pressure is evident from their recent victory over Louisiana-Lafayette, highlighting their resilience at home.
James Madison’s betting trends are favorable, especially when playing at home where they hold an 85.7% win rate over their last 21 home games. With a history of covering the spread as favorites, they are well-positioned to meet the -2.5 spread set by sportsbooks.
Old Dominion, on the other hand, has struggled on the road with a 1-2 record. While they boast a competitive run game, James Madison’s defense is capable of containing their offense, as seen in their defensive rank of 38th in points against.
Given James Madison’s strong home performance and consistency in conference play, the Dukes are likely to cover the spread. Projected final score: James Madison 28 – Old Dominion 21.
- James Madison vs Old Dominion Prediction: James Madison -2.5
- James Madison vs Old Dominion Score: James Madison 28 – Old Dominion 21
