Villanova’s defense performed well, holding the dynamic JMU Dukes offense to just 20 points (they averaged 49 coming into the game), but a poor offensive performance ultimately cost them the win. The Wildcats scored just one touchdown, and made it within field goal range just one other time; missing on a poorly kicked line-drive into the line. A late pick-off by JMU near the Villanova endzone allowed the Dukes to pull away, 20-7, late in the fourth quarter.
James Madison’s dynamic starting quarterback Bryan Schor helped lead the Dukes to a score on their opening drive, but the Villanova Wildcats’ defense dug in to slow them the rest of the half.