Ellis Scores Three Instances, Protection Posts One other Second-Half Shutout to Beat Cajuns

HARRISONBURG, Va. – Landon Ellis scored a career-high three touchdowns, as James Madison used one other second-half defensive shutout to down Louisiana, 24-14, on Saturday afternoon at Bridgeforth Stadium.

Trailing 14-7 at halftime, the Dukes (5-1, 3-0 Sun Belt) scored 17 unanswered factors, outgaining the Ragin’ Cajuns (2-4, 1-1 Sun Belt) 227-59 over the ultimate two quarters. With the win, JMU turns into the primary Sun Belt Conference crew to begin 5-1 in 4 consecutive seasons, and first in league historical past to carry groups to underneath 300 yards in six straight video games.

Alonza Barnett III recorded season highs in passing yards (290) and touchdowns (3), going 26-for-40 by way of the air whereas including 28 yards on the bottom. Ellis’ 120 yards on six catches are probably the most receiving yards by a Duke this season, whereas his three touchdowns are probably the most by a Duke since 2023. Braeden Wisloski led the crew with seven catches for 69 yards.

Wayne Knight handed the century mark for the third time this season, producing 111 yards on 5.6 yards per carry, highlighted by a 49-yard effort midway by way of the second quarter. Knight additionally earned 39 yards on kick returns and 23 by way of the air, giving him 173 all-purpose yards on the afternoon. Jordan Fuller aided within the floor sport with 50 yards on 12 makes an attempt.

Elijah Culp and Tyler Brown every registered eight tackles to tempo the JMU protection. Jacob Thomas helped seal the victory with an interception within the endzone with 1:41 remaining within the sport for his second takeaway of the season. Sahir West and Aiden Gobaira each produced a sack, with West totaling 1.5 TFLs to guide the Dukes.

More to come back…