The Old Dominion University (ODU) Monarchs and the James Madison University (JMU) Dukes have a long-standing rivalry in the world of college football. With over 40 meetings between the two teams, there have been many thrilling moments that have shaped the history of this rivalry. Here are 5 key moments that stand out in the ODU vs JMU game history:
The Beginning of a Rivalry (1971)
The first meeting between ODU and JMU took place on November 13, 1971, at Foreman Field in Norfolk, Virginia. The Dukes, who were then a member of the College Division, won the game 21-14. This initial meeting set the stage for a rivalry that would span over four decades. In the early years, JMU dominated the series, winning 10 of the first 12 meetings.
A Turning Point for ODU (1988)
On October 22, 1988, the Monarchs finally broke through and defeated the Dukes 24-21 at Bridgeforth Stadium in Harrisonburg, Virginia. This victory marked a turning point in the series, as ODU went on to win 5 of the next 7 meetings. The Monarchs' success during this period was largely due to the leadership of head coach Bobby Wilder, who would go on to become the winningest coach in ODU history.
A Thrilling Comeback (2002)
On November 16, 2002, the Monarchs staged a dramatic comeback at Foreman Field, overcoming a 14-point deficit in the fourth quarter to defeat the Dukes 31-24. Trailing 24-10 with just over 10 minutes remaining, ODU scored 21 unanswered points to take the lead and secure the victory. This thrilling comeback is still remembered as one of the greatest moments in ODU football history.
The Battle for the FCS Playoffs (2010)
On November 13, 2010, the Monarchs and Dukes clashed in a crucial matchup that would determine which team would advance to the FCS playoffs. In a back-and-forth affair, ODU ultimately emerged victorious, winning 28-21 at Bridgeforth Stadium. The Monarchs' victory marked their first playoff appearance in school history and set the stage for a successful postseason run.
A Record-Breaking Performance (2016)
On September 17, 2016, the Monarchs and Dukes met at Foreman Field in a game that would see a record-breaking performance by ODU quarterback David Washington. Washington threw for a school-record 403 yards and 3 touchdowns, leading the Monarchs to a 42-28 victory. The win marked ODU's first-ever win over a top-10 ranked FCS team and cemented Washington's place in school history.
As the rivalry between ODU and JMU continues to grow, these 5 key moments stand out as defining moments in the history of the series. Whether it's a thrilling comeback, a record-breaking performance, or a crucial playoff victory, the Monarchs and Dukes always seem to bring out the best in each other.
Do you have a favorite moment in ODU vs JMU game history? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
What is the all-time record between ODU and JMU?
+As of the end of the 2020 season, the all-time record between ODU and JMU stands at 23-15 in favor of the Dukes.
What conference do ODU and JMU currently compete in?
+Old Dominion University currently competes in the Sun Belt Conference, while James Madison University competes in the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA).
When was the last meeting between ODU and JMU?
+The last meeting between ODU and JMU took place on September 22, 2018, at Foreman Field in Norfolk, Virginia. The Dukes won the game 37-0.