Western Kentucky Seeks Fourth Straight Win, James Madison Aims Postseason Victory
2024 Boca Raton Bowl: Western Kentucky Hilltoppers vs James Madison Dukes
The 2024 Boca Raton Bowl on Wednesday, December 20th, promises an exciting matchup between the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers (8-5, 6-2 C-USA) and the James Madison Dukes (8-4, 4-4 Sun Belt). The game will take place at FAU Stadium at 5:30 PM ET, showcasing two dynamic teams eager to cap off their seasons with a victory.
Western Kentucky: Aiming for Fourth Straight Bowl Victory
After a disappointing 52-15 defeat against Jacksonville State in the Conference USA Championship, the Hilltoppers are looking to rebound and extend their impressive bowl-winning streak. With three consecutive bowl victories under their belt, they will aim for their fourth when they take on the Dukes in this postseason showdown.
Western Kentucky’s Offensive Overview: The Hilltoppers have an offense that blends the pass and run effectively, averaging 26.9 points per game. Through the air, they are led by Caden Veltkamp, who was named the Conference USA Offensive Player of the Year after throwing for 2,805 yards, 23 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions. Veltkamp’s 66.6% completion rate highlights his efficiency.
On the ground, Elijah Young has been a key contributor, rushing for 846 yards and three touchdowns. The Hilltoppers’ passing game is particularly potent, with Kisean Johnson hauling in 66 catches for 855 yards and seven touchdowns.
However, Western Kentucky will need to shore up its defense, which allowed 52 points in their recent loss to Jacksonville State. The Hilltoppers typically surrender 24.5 points per game, but they must tighten up if they want to avoid another high-scoring defeat.
James Madison: Searching for Their First Bowl Victory
The James Madison Dukes (8-4), who finished third in the Sun Belt East, are looking to redeem themselves after a tough loss to Air Force in their inaugural bowl game last season (Armed Forces Bowl). Now in their second bowl appearance, the Dukes are hungry for their first postseason win.
James Madison’s Offensive Firepower: The Dukes have been an offensive juggernaut this season, averaging 36.7 points per game, thanks to a well-rounded attack. At the helm of their offense is Alonza Barnett III, who has thrown for 2,598 yards, 26 touchdowns, and just four interceptions. He’s also a dual-threat quarterback, adding 442 rushing yards and seven touchdowns on the ground. Barnett’s ability to both pass and run makes him a constant threat, and he will be key to James Madison’s chances of pulling off the win.
In the backfield, George Pettaway has been a workhorse, rushing for 880 yards and five touchdowns, while Yamir Knight has been a reliable receiving target with 49 catches for 567 yards and four touchdowns.
James Madison’s offense thrives through balance, with their rushing attack (189.8 yards per game) complementing their solid passing game (218.9 yards per game).
James Madison’s Defense: Defensively, the Dukes have been strong throughout the season, limiting opponents to 20.8 points per game. However, they did give up 35 points in their most recent loss to Marshall, so they’ll need to regroup if they want to contain the Hilltoppers’ offensive firepower.
Conclusion
Both teams come into this game with explosive offenses but have shown vulnerabilities on defense. Western Kentucky will rely on Veltkamp’s arm and the playmaking abilities of Johnson and Young, while James Madison will look to capitalize on the mobility of Barnett and Pettaway’s consistent production in the backfield.
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