Western Kentucky and James Madison square off in the Boca Raton Bowl on Wednesday evening at FAU Stadium. Western Kentucky aims to secure its third victory in this bowl, while James Madison seeks its first-ever bowl win in program history as a full FBS member.
Western Kentucky Hilltoppers
The Hilltoppers enter this matchup at 8-5, coming off a 52-12 loss to Jacksonville State in the Conference USA championship. Despite their struggles, quarterback Caden Veltkamp will play, despite being in the transfer portal. Veltkamp, the Conference USA Offensive Player of the Year, has thrown for 2,806 yards, 23 touchdowns, and six interceptions this season.
Special Teams standout Lucas Carneiro, the C-USA Special Teams Player of the Year, remains a consistent weapon for Western Kentucky. He has converted 17 of 18 field goals and all 39 extra points this season.
However, Western Kentucky’s defense has been inconsistent, allowing nearly 5 yards per carry. Losing key defenders such as Darius Thomas and Dallas Walker to the transfer portal could impact their performance against James Madison’s ground attack.
James Madison Dukes
James Madison (8-4) is playing in its second bowl game since joining the FBS and looks to bounce back after consecutive losses to close the regular season. Redshirt junior Billy Atkins will start at quarterback in place of injured starter Alonza Barnett III. Atkins brings experience and has taken starter reps leading into this game.
The Dukes’ offense will rely heavily on the run game, which has been solid in recent weeks. Jobi Malary racked up 106 rushing yards against Marshall, and the run game will need to produce to support the inexperienced quarterback.
Defensively, James Madison leads the nation in turnover margin (+17), a key strength that could determine the outcome against a Western Kentucky team with offensive firepower. Their ability to force turnovers and capitalize on mistakes will be crucial.
Key Matchup
The matchup to watch will be James Madison’s rushing offense against Western Kentucky’s run defense. If the Dukes can control the line of scrimmage and exploit a weakened Western Kentucky front, it could tilt the game in their favor.
Pick and Prediction
James Madison enters this game with momentum defensively, particularly with their ability to force turnovers. Western Kentucky’s reliance on Veltkamp’s arm could lead to mistakes, and with key defensive departures, stopping the run will be a challenge. Expect James Madison to control possession and edge out a victory.
- Prediction: James Madison 27, Western Kentucky 20
