Texas State Bobcats vs James Madison Dukes Prediction & Picks - NCAA

Prediction published on 10/28/25, 4:04 PM  by Travis Pulver | Modified on 1/13/26 at 9:14 AM in NCAA Picks

The James Madison Dukes will take their undefeated conference record to the Lone Star State for a game against the Texas State Bobcats at UFCU Stadium in San Marcos, TX. Kickoff for this Sun Belt Conference battle is scheduled for 8 p.m. EST and the game will be broadcast on ESPN2.

JMU’s lone loss came early in the season against a Power 4 team, a solid Louisville program, 28-14. Since then, they have won five in a row and are coming off a dominant 63-27 performance against Old Dominion. The running game (seventh in the nation, 243.7 yards per game) has been the driving force behind the offense (35th). But their defense has had opponents on lockdown all season. It’s ranked No. 4 in total defense, No. 2 vs. the run, No. 13 vs. the pass, and No. 11 in scoring. As for Texas State, the offense is certainly capable, averaging close to 500 yards per game (230.7 rushing and 257.1 passing) and 36 points. But they are 3-4 largely due to their defense, which can’t stop anyone (101st in total defense, 97th against the run, and 98th against the pass). It gives up 400+ yards per game and 31.3 points.