Get ready for the 2024 Boca Raton Bowl, where the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers (WKU) will go head-to-head with the James Madison Dukes (JMU) on December 18, 2024. The action will unfold at FAU Stadium in Boca Raton, Florida, starting at 5:30 PM ET. Both teams are fired up to end their seasons on a high note with a win.
Western Kentucky Hilltoppers (8-5, 6-2 CUSA)
WKU is heading into the bowl game after a tough season, wrapping up with an 8-5 overall record and a solid 6-2 in Conference USA. They made it to the Conference USA Championship Game but unfortunately lost to Jacksonville State, with a score of 52-12. Key players for WKU include:
Caden Veltkamp (QB): Veltkamp, the star quarterback and Conference USA Offensive Player of the Year, has racked up 2,806 passing yards this season, tossing 23 touchdowns and 10 picks. His ability to make big plays when the pressure’s on will be key in facing JMU’s defense.
Elijah Young (RB): Young is at the forefront of the ground game, racking up 846 rushing yards and hitting the end zone 3 times, which helps create a well-rounded offensive strategy with Veltkamp.
Kisean Johnson (WR): Johnson has become a major player in the passing game, racking up 66 catches for 855 yards and 7 touchdowns, which makes him an essential part of WKU’s offensive plan.
James Madison Dukes (8-4, 4-4 Sun Belt)
James Madison heads into this bowl game with an 8-4 record, wrapping up their regular season on a strong note in the Sun Belt Conference. Unfortunately, they stumbled at the finish line, dropping their last two games, one of which was a tough double-overtime defeat against Marshall (35-33). Some key players to watch for JMU are:
Alonza Barnett III (QB): Barnett has really stood out this season, racking up 2,598 passing yards and an impressive 26 touchdowns while only throwing 4 interceptions. His skills in reading defenses and making fast decisions will be key when facing WKU’s secondary.
George Pettaway (RB): Pettaway, JMU’s top rusher, has racked up 880 rushing yards and found the end zone 5 times. His play will be crucial for getting the run game going right from the start of the game.
Jalen Green (WR): Green, one of Barnett’s main targets, has racked up more than 800 receiving yards and is recognized for his quickness and knack for opening up the field.
Game Analysis
Key Matchups
Quarterback Duel: The game between Veltkamp and Barnett III is going to be crucial. Both quarterbacks have proven they can steer their teams well, but Veltkamp’s experience in tough situations might just give WKU the upper hand.
Running Game vs. Defense: JMU’s rushing attack, spearheaded by Pettaway, is set to challenge WKU’s defense, which has had a tough time this season. If JMU can get the run going right from the start, it might create chances for Barnett to take advantage of WKU’s secondary.
Turnover Battle: Both teams have had their fair share of issues with turnovers in previous matches. Keeping hold of the ball is going to be super important; if JMU can take advantage of any slip-ups from WKU, it could really change the game.
Betting Odds
James Madison is coming into this game as the favorite by about 6.5 points, thanks to their solid performance lately, while WKU has been having a tough time. The total points line is set at around 51.5, suggesting that we can expect a pretty competitive scoring game.
Sports Betting Ace’s Final Score Prediction: James Madison Dukes 33 – Western Kentucky Hilltoppers 22
This score shows how well JMU’s offense performed against WKU’s shaky defense, taking into account any turnovers that might affect their chances to score.
The Boca Raton Bowl is a great chance for these teams to show off their skills and finish their seasons strong. With star players eager to make an impact and both squads fired up for a win, this game is sure to bring some thrilling moments for college football fans all around.