James Madison edges Gardner-Webb 13-6 with late defensive stand
- James Madison scored the only touchdown of the game, with Tyler Purdy running it in during the third quarter.
- Gardner-Webb had a lengthy drive in the fourth quarter but failed to convert on a crucial fourth down.
- The Dukes' defense held strong, leading to a 13-6 victory over the Runnin' Bulldogs.
On Saturday night in Harrisonburg, Virginia, James Madison University faced Gardner-Webb in a tightly contested football game. The Dukes struggled in the first half but turned the tide in the third quarter, scoring on their initial two possessions. Tyler Purdy's short touchdown run and Noe Ruelas' impressive 48-yard field goal, following an interception by Chauncey Logan, propelled JMU to a 10-3 lead. The teams exchanged field goals, maintaining a narrow margin as the game progressed. In the fourth quarter, Gardner-Webb mounted a significant 15-play drive that consumed over eight minutes. Despite converting on two fourth downs, the Runnin' Bulldogs were unable to capitalize, as Tyler Riddell's pass fell incomplete on a crucial fourth down attempt from the 14-yard line with just over two minutes left in the game. This defensive stand by James Madison proved pivotal in securing their victory. Quarterback Alonza Barnett III played a key role in the closing moments, executing a 23-yard run that allowed the Dukes to run out the clock and seal the win. Barnett completed 14 of 22 passes for 135 yards, while George Pettaway contributed significantly with 84 rushing yards on 10 carries. Gardner-Webb's Riddell had a challenging game, completing 17 of 30 passes for 160 yards and suffering two interceptions. With this victory, James Madison improved to a 2-0 record, while Gardner-Webb fell to 0-2. The game highlighted the Dukes' resilience and defensive prowess, particularly in critical moments, setting a strong tone for the remainder of their season.