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James Madison vs. North Dakota State Prediction and Odds For FCS Semifinals

By Donnavan Smoot

Cole Johnson is ready to lead the Dukes to an upset.
Cole Johnson is ready to lead the Dukes to an upset. / William Bretzger / USA TODAY NETWORK
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James Madison will try to pull off the upset against North Dakota State and get to the FCS Championship game. While they aren't big underdogs against the spread, the Bison are constantly in the mix for a national championship and are favorites to get back to the title game.

Both teams are 12-1 and have very different styles offensively. The Dukes like to get their yards through the air; The Bison get theirs on the ground. However, they both get the job done and know how to win football games. Who will prevail and earn a spot in the national championship game.

Here are the odds for their matchup via WynnBET.

James Madison vs. North Dakota State Spread, Odds and Over/Under

Spread: 

  • James Madison: +4 (-110)
  • NDSU: -4 (-110)

Moneyline: 

  • James Madison: +170
  • NDSU: -190

Total: 47.5 (Over: -110/Under: -110)

James Madison vs. North Dakota State Betting Trends

  • NDSU is 7-6 ATS this season. 
  • The UNDER is 7-6 in Bison games this season. 
  • James Madison is 4-1 ATS in its last five games.
  • The OVER is 4-1 in JMU’s last five games.

James Madison vs. North Dakota State Prediction and Pick

These teams have some of the most prolific offenses in the FCS. James Madison averages over 40 points per game, while North Dakota State (NDSU) averages 34.8. Although the Dukes' offense has the edge and is in the top 5, I have to go with the Bison.

The Bison have won eight of the last 11 FCS championships and they have all the experience in the world. Also, their offense is more efficient than the Dukes'. The Bison average 7.0 yards per play and will certainly have the edge on the ground. NDSU rushes for 281.3 yards per game, while allowing just over 81 per game.

Whoever can control the ground game will win the game, and the Bison have shown the ability all season long to do so.

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