James Madison University's offense faced significant challenges in its recent loss to App State, with critical struggles in the running game and quarterback effectiveness. Head coach Billy Napier acknowledged the team's difficulties, stating, "We struggled to run it." The Dukes missed opportunities in the first half that could have altered the game's trajectory, ultimately failing to capitalize.
The usual offensive system for the Dukes typically featured fourth-year quarterback Camden Coleman starting drives, with third-year JC Evans entering for third and fourth downs, especially in short-yardage scenarios. However, this duo did not achieve the same success against App State as they had in a prior game against Georgia State. In that Week 7 matchup, Evans rushed for two touchdowns and totaled 21 rushing yards. Against App State in Boone, Evans recorded a net minus-2 rushing yards, averaging minus-.4 yards per play.
The quarterback rotation took a pivotal turn in overtime. After Coleman managed to find the end zone with just three seconds left in regulation, it was Evans who was sent out to begin the overtime drive. This decision did not lead to success, as the Dukes ultimately went backward before missing a field goal attempt, failing to score in the extra period. Napier emphasized the need for improvement, noting, "We have some of the details there [that] need to be buttoned up" and added that the team must "have some answers for the field pressure."
Despite the overall offensive struggles and the loss, some individual performances shone through. Fourth-year wide receiver Braeden Wisloski provided a highlight, notching a 70-yard touchdown. Wisloski recounted managing to dodge multiple App State defenders to cross into the end zone for the score. He explained that the team anticipated a man coverage, and he "saw an opening" that allowed him to make a play and score.
Another point of light for the Dukes was the performance of fifth-year punter Patrick Rea. Rea was credited with seven punts during the game, maintaining an impressive average of 45.1 yards per punt, with two of his punts landing inside the 20-yard line. Head coach Napier praised Rea's efforts, remarking, "I thought he was phenomenal tonight." Napier viewed Rea's and Wisloski's performances as "good examples of the character of our kids and some of the things that we could be proud of."
Looking ahead, Napier expressed confidence in his team's ability to rebound. As they prepare for another Thursday-night matchup, this time at home against Troy, Napier stated, "We’ve got to take ownership of the things that we can do better as coaches and players." He conveyed certainty in his team's resilience, adding, "But I know the response that we’ll get out of this group."
