Troy Falls Late as No. 19 James Madison Pulls Away 31–14 to Claim Sun Belt Championship in Snowy Harrisonburg

Dukes use explosive ground game, clutch fourth-quarter surge, and defensive knockout score to fend off upset-minded Troy and secure another SBC title in blizzard-like conditions.

HARRISONBURG, Va. | In a Sun Belt Championship Game defined by frigid weather, flying snowballs, and relentless defensive pressure, No. 19 James Madison (12–1) survived a determined challenge from Troy (8–5) to earn a 31–14 victory Friday night at Bridgeforth Stadium. The Dukes, fueled by late-game rushing dominance and a defensive touchdown, claimed their latest SBC title in front of a rowdy, snow-packed crowd.

Fourth-Quarter Surge Breaks Open Tight Contest

Leading only 17–14 with just over six minutes to play, James Madison seized control with a game-changing drive. Running back Wayne Knight, the star of the evening, ripped off a crucial 40-yard burst, setting up a 26-yard touchdown run by Alonza Barnett II that pushed the lead to 24–14 with 4:11 remaining.

On the next series, JMU’s defense—already smelling blood—delivered the knockout blow. Down starting quarterback Goose Crowder and left tackle Eli Russ due to injuries, Troy backup Tucker Kilcrease was sacked twice, including a devastating 4th-and-19 hit that jarred the ball loose. The Dukes scooped it up and returned it for a touchdown, sealing the championship.

Defense Carries Troy, But Missed Chances Prove Costly

Troy, making its third SBC Championship Game appearance in four seasons, played with grit, holding JMU to just 93 passing yards—the Dukes’ third-lowest FBS output ever. Defensive leader Justin Powe posted a career-high 11 tackles, and Jaquez White intercepted Barnett in the third quarter to set up a prime scoring chance.

But missed opportunities haunted the Trojans. A short field after White’s interception resulted in a missed field goal. Powe’s forced fumble and recovery on the next possession also fizzled into a three-and-out, leaving Troy unable to capitalize despite stealing momentum twice in the span of minutes.

Ground Game Too Much for the Trojans

While Barnett struggled through the air (10-of-25, 1 INT), the Dukes dominated on the ground. Knight carved up the Troy defense for 212 yards on 21 carries, including a blistering 73-yard touchdown that instantly erased Troy’s early 7–3 lead. Barnett added 85 yards rushing and the late dagger touchdown.

Troy answered that early JMU strike with an 11-play, 75-yard drive capped by Tae Meadows' 2-yard score, tying the game before halftime. But the Dukes’ rushing efficiency and late-game burst ultimately proved insurmountable.

Snowfall, Snowballs, and Controversy

An overnight storm dumped 3 to 5 inches of snow on Harrisonburg, complicating both field conditions and stadium operations. While most seating areas were cleared, the student section remained packed with snow, leading to constant snowball bombardments directed at Troy players.

One snowball hit punter Evan Crenshaw during a first-quarter punt attempt, limiting him to a 26-yard kick and gifting JMU a short field that led to a field goal. Despite repeated incidents, no in-stadium actions were taken, frustrating Troy coaches and players.

What’s Next

Troy now waits to learn its bowl destination, marking its 11th FBS bowl appearance and sixth in the last 10 seasons. James Madison, at 12–1, strengthens its case as one of the top Group of Five programs heading into postseason play.

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-- By Amelia Nettles

Michele Robinson contributed to this report

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