James Madison vs Louisville Picks and Prediction for Friday September 5 2025

By: Eddie Kline Published 09/01/2025, 09:59 PM ET

The week two college football schedule will kick off on Friday night with a matchup between the James Madison Dukes and the Louisville Cardinals from L&N Federal Credit Union Stadium. Make sure you are ready for all the football action with our college football picks. The Dukes (1-0) are coming off a nine-win season and are expected to contend for the Sun Belt title. On Saturday, James Madison limited Weber State to 148 total yards and forced three turnovers during a 45-10 home victory.

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James Madison Preview

James Madison QB Alonza Barnett III started the scoring with an 11-yard touchdown run and added a 20-yard touchdown pass to Isaiah Alston. QB Matthew Sluka added a short touchdown plunge and connected with Landon Ellis for a 14-yard score. The Dukes rushed for an impressive 313 yards on 44 carries.

Louisville Preview

The Louisville Cardinals closed the 2024 season with a dominant win over rival Kentucky and a one-point victory against Washington in the Sun Bowl. The Cardinals (1-0) are loaded once again on offense and have the talent to be a contender for the ACC Conference championship. On Saturday, Louisville raced out to a 21-point first quarter advantage and cruised to a 51-17 home victory versus Eastern Kentucky.

USC transfer QB Miller Moss threw for 223 yards and a 30-yard touchdown pass. Moss added a score on the ground, but was picked off twice. Issac Brown needed just six carries to amass 126 rushing yards and two scores. Caulin Lacy added a 93-yard punt return touchdown for the Cardinals.

James Madison vs Louisville Pick

With Boise State losing their season opener, James Madison has an opportunity to reach the College Football Playoff. The Dukes do not have a ranked opponent on their schedule and have the talent to go undefeated. Miller Moss throwing two interceptions against Eastern Kentucky is cause for concern. Take the Dukes on the spread and sprinkle a little on the moneyline as well. Final Score Prediction, James Madison Dukes win 30-27.

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