Takeaways from JMU Football’s Dominant Win over Coastal Carolina

JMU football wrapped up their impressive 2023 regular season with a resounding 56-14 victory over Coastal Carolina, solidifying their dominance over their opponent. Here are three key points to take away from the game:

Deja Vu

In a game that mirrored last year’s blowout victory, JMU once again displayed their superiority over Coastal Carolina. The Dukes outperformed their opponents in key areas, including total yards gained, turnovers won, and scoring the first 35 points of the game. The victory firmly established JMU as the top team in the Sun Belt, swiftly bouncing back from their loss to App State. Over the past two meetings, JMU has outscored Coastal Carolina by a commanding margin of 103-21.

McCloud’s Redemption

After struggling against App State, JMU quarterback Jordan McCloud showcased his skills and potential by delivering an outstanding performance against the Chanticleers. Completing 26 of 35 passes for 324 yards and five touchdowns, McCloud looked every bit like the Sun Belt Player of the Year. His connection with wide receiver Elijah Sarratt proved to be highly effective, with Sarratt catching six passes for 107 yards and three touchdowns. Other receiving threats, such as Phoenix Sproles, Reggie Brown, and Zach Horton, contributed to McCloud’s success. With McCloud expected to return next season, JMU’s offense looks poised to contend for another Sun Belt title.

2024 Goal: College Football Playoff

Looking ahead to the 2024 season, JMU’s primary objective, assuming Coach Curt Cignetti remains with the program, should be to compete for the Sun Belt title. The Dukes have consistently demonstrated their ability to be a strong contender in the conference. However, they aim to achieve an even more prestigious goal: securing a spot in the expanded 12-team College Football Playoff. With the return of key players like McCloud, the entire offensive line, Sarratt, and a promising recruiting class, JMU’s probabilities of reaching the playoff are within reach. The team will need to address the departure of some key players, but the transfer portal and recruitment efforts should help fill those gaps.

While there is still a bowl game remaining in the 2023 season, it’s hard not to contemplate the College Football Playoff aspirations for JMU in 2024 after witnessing their dominant display against Coastal Carolina.