The Skinny on James Madison
The skinny
Coach: Mickey Matthews (76-46, 11th season)2008 records: 8-0 CAA, 12-2
Offense: Quarterback is the big question mark entering the season, but Matthews will install the same spread offense for both players. He said to anticipate a 60/40 run/pass mix, which is about what he's aimed for in previous seasons. Once the team has a signal-caller, expect the offense to be the team's strong suit.
Defense: College coaches have to deal with the certainty of graduation, and that reality will hit home for the Dukes this year. They're thin at key positions, and have juggled players around to ensure enough depth at safety and linebacker. How quickly the unit jells will be a key factor in whether the Dukes will be able to repeat last season's success.
Specialists: Return man Scotty McGee has shown the CAA just how electrifying he can be, but there's uncertainty at other key positions with the loss of kicker Dave Stannard and punter Jason Pritchard. Expect the spotlight to shine on McGee, who seems to find openings in the smallest places, once again.
Quotable: "I tell the players that you guys decide who plays, we're just going to announce it." -- Matthews
Outlook: Don't expect another undefeated run through the CAA, but this year's team has enough firepower to compete every week and earn a playoff bid.
Bottom line: 7-1 CAA, 9-2
| Date | Opponent | Time |
Sept. 12 |
at Maryland | 6 p.m. |
| Sept. 19 | VMI | 6 |
| Sept. 26 | at Liberty | 7 |
| Oct. 3 | at Hofstra | 3 |
| Oct. 10 | Richmond | noon |
| Oct. 17 | Villanova | 3:30 |
| Oct. 24 | at Wm. and Mary | 12 |
| Oct. 31 | at Delaware | noon |
| Nov. 7 | Maine | 3 |
| Nov. 14 | at Massachusetts | 12 |
| Nov. 21 | Towson | 3 |
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