SharpBetz
NCAAB

Georgia Southern Eagles vs James Madison Dukes

Thursday, February 26, 2026

Matchup Analysis

This NCAAB matchup features Georgia Southern Eagles (15-14 (9-5)) traveling to take on James Madison Dukes (16-13 (10-3)) at Atlantic Union Bank Center, Harrisonburg, VA. These two teams are closely matched, with both squads posting similar scoring differentials this season. This projects as a competitive contest that could go either way. James Madison averages 73.9 points per game, but they face a GA Southern defense that holds opponents to 79.7 PPG. The visitors' defensive prowess could limit the home team's scoring output. The GA Southern offense puts up 80.3 PPG and faces a James Madison defense allowing 73.9 PPG. The visitors have the offensive firepower to stay in this one. Home court advantage is worth approximately 3.5 points in NCAAB, and James Madison will look to leverage their home crowd. Our model projects James Madison to win by approximately 4.9 points. The 68% confidence interval ranges from James Madison winning by 18 to losing by 8. Our model aligns closely with the market on this one, suggesting the oddsmakers have priced this game efficiently. Look for small edges in the total and moneyline markets to capitalize on any remaining value.

Team Comparison

GASO GA Southern
Stat
JMU James Madison
15-14 (9-5)
Record
16-13 (10-3)
Last 10
80.3
PPG
73.9
79.7
Opp PPG
73.9

Current Odds

Team Moneyline Spread Total
GASO Georgia Southern Eagles
+185 +5.5 O 154.5
JMU James Madison Dukes
-225 -5.5 U 154.5
Source: Draft Kings Updated: Feb 26, 4:53 AM
Opening line: -5.5 / O/U 154.5

Model Projection

Team Moneyline Spread Total
GASO Georgia Southern Eagles
+146 +4.9 O 154.2
JMU James Madison Dukes
-146 -4.9 U 154.2
Source: Model Updated: Feb 25, 6:03 AM

Our Picks

Spread
Pass
Model: -4.9 | Edge below threshold
Total
Pass
Model: 154.2 | Edge below threshold

Recent Trends

James Madison enters at 16-13 (10-3), hovering around the .500 mark. They've shown flashes of strong play but haven't been able to sustain consistency. At home, they'll look to put together a complete performance and build momentum. GA Southern sits at 15-14 (9-5) on the season. They've been competitive in most outings but have had their share of inconsistent performances. On the road, they'll need to bring their best effort to come away with a win. When these teams meet, the home team typically has the edge given the crowd advantage and familiarity factor. The team that controls tempo and limits turnovers will likely dictate the outcome of this matchup.

Matchup Edges

James Madison

Advantages

  • Home court advantage and crowd support
  • Familiarity with home venue and routines

Disadvantages

  • Potential for inconsistency in key moments

GA Southern

Advantages

  • Potent offense averaging 80.3 PPG
  • Nothing to lose as the visiting team
  • Road underdog motivation — play with less pressure

Disadvantages

  • Playing on the road without home crowd support
  • Defense allows 79.7 PPG — exploitable