College Football Pick: James Madison Dukes vs. Charlotte 49ers
The college football season kicks off with a week 1 matchup between the James Madison Dukes and the Charlotte 49ers. This game, scheduled for Saturday, August 31st at 8 PM EST, will be hosted by Charlotte.
James Madison: A Legacy of Winning
James Madison has been a powerhouse in recent years, transitioning seamlessly from FCS dominance to FBS success. They boasted an 8-3 record in 2022 and an impressive 11-2 record last season, narrowly missing an undefeated season. Despite losing to Air Force in the Armed Forces Bowl, their consistent winning tradition is undeniable.
However, the Dukes face a significant challenge this year with the departure of Head Coach Curt Cignetti to Indiana. Bob Chesney steps in, bringing his successful track record from Holy Cross and Assumption. With only four returning offensive starters and three defensive starters, Chesney will rely on new talent acquired through the transfer portal. The schedule appears manageable, with the toughest test likely coming against North Carolina in late September.
Charlotte: Building on Competitiveness
Charlotte’s recent history hasn’t been as illustrious, with only one winning season in the past decade. Last year, under first-year coach Biff Poggi, they finished 3-9. However, there are reasons for optimism. The 49ers remained competitive in most games last season and retain seven offensive starters and five defensive starters.
Game Prediction and Betting Insights
Current betting lines favor James Madison by -10 at Wagerweb and MyBookie, with a total of 51.5. While our model predicts a 35-10 victory for James Madison based on last season’s performance, the off-season changes and coaching transition introduce uncertainty.
Our Picks: Focusing on the Early Game
Considering the potential learning curve for James Madison with new players, coaches, and schemes, we see value in backing Charlotte in the first quarter and first half. Their established competitiveness and returning players could give them an edge early on.
Conclusion
While James Madison’s winning legacy is undeniable, the changes they’ve undergone create an opportunity for Charlotte to capitalize, especially in the early stages of the game.
Charlotte + for the 1st quarter
Charlotte + for the 1st half