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App State Stuns James Madison in Overtime Thriller
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- App State Stuns James Madison in Overtime Thriller
Photo by: Jaylynn Nash
Appalachian State delivered one of its biggest victories of the season Thursday night, stunning previously unbeaten James Madison 34-31 in overtime at Kidd Brewer Stadium. James London connected on a 40 yard field goal in the extra period, capping a dramatic finish and handing the Dukes their first loss of the 2026 season.
The victory improved the Mountaineers to 5-2 overall and 2-1 in Sun Belt Conference play. James Madison fell to 7-1 and 4-1 in conference action, suffering a painful setback in its pursuit of a potential College Football Playoff appearance.
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A Competitive Battle From the Start
James Madison struck first when George Pettaway scored on a one yard touchdown run. Appalachian State answered with a 48 yard field goal from London, but the Dukes extended their advantage when JC Evans connected with Braeden Wisloski for a 70 yard touchdown.
The Mountaineers responded before halftime, as Malachi Singleton threw a 19-yard touchdown pass to Alexander Sanchez. App State entered the break trailing 14-10, keeping itself within striking distance despite JMU's explosive passing play.
The teams traded scores throughout the second half. London connected on another field goal, but Camden Coleman answered for the Dukes with a 19 yard touchdown pass to Cole Keller.
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Appalachian State eventually tied the game 21-21 with a 75 yard scoring drive early in the fourth quarter, setting up a tense finish.
Late Drama Forces Overtime
With the game hanging in the balance, App State's defense produced a crucial turnover. Linebacker Colton Phares intercepted Coleman and returned the ball 21 yards, giving the Mountaineers excellent field position.
Henry Hasselbeck capitalized by throwing a four yard touchdown pass to Luke Douglas, putting App State ahead 31-24 with 5:52 remaining.
However, James Madison refused to go away. Coleman led a late drive and scored on a six-yard run with just three seconds left, forcing overtime after Morgan Suarez's extra point tied the game.
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The Dukes had the first possession in overtime but struggled to move the ball backward before Suarez attempted a 47-yard field goal. The kick struck the left upright and missed, giving App State an opportunity to win.
London made the most of it, drilling his fourth field goal of the night from 40 yards to secure the upset.
A Statement Victory for App State
The win marked another memorable chapter in the rivalry, with Appalachian State once again ending James Madison's unbeaten run in dramatic fashion.
For the Mountaineers, the victory provides significant momentum as they continue their push in the Sun Belt. For the Dukes, the defeat ends their perfect start and leaves little room for error moving forward.
App State proved it could compete with one of the conference's strongest teams, delivering a thrilling performance in front of its home crowd.
