Bob Chesney Reacts to James Madison’s College Football Playoff Loss to Oregon
James Madison University, the 12th seed in the College Football Playoff, faced a tough defeat against 5th seeded Oregon, ending their season with a score of 51-34. The game took place at Autzen Stadium, marking the Dukes’ second loss of the season. Their final record stands at 12 wins and 2 losses.
Coach Bob Chesney’s Reflection on the Game
Following the game, Coach Bob Chesney analyzed his team’s performance. He emphasized the team’s struggles with complementary football throughout the match. While there were moments of success on offense, defense, and special teams, Chesney noted that inconsistency ultimately hindered their performance.
“We needed to play elite football to match up with Oregon,” Chesney stated. He expressed pride in his seniors for their efforts throughout the season and acknowledged the journey they had undertaken together.
Emotional Moments and Locker Room Reflections
Despite the loss, Chesney highlighted the emotional bond within the team. He mentioned that he was unable to enter the locker room but made a point to hug each player as they left the field. “As disappointing as today is, we should be proud of what we accomplished this year,” he said.
Analyzing the Game Dynamics
In the post-game analysis, Chesney addressed the criticisms surrounding the inclusion of Group of Six teams in major bowl games. He stated, “That’s a conversation above me; my focus is on preparing our team.” He reiterated that while they did manage to accumulate impressive yardage, mistakes including 13 penalties played a significant role in their defeat.
James Madison’s offense showed signs of promise, especially in the second half, scoring a total of 28 points after trailing 34-6 at halftime. Chesney attributed the improved performance to increased confidence and better protection from the offensive line.
Looking Forward to Future Seasons
Chesney remains optimistic about the future of the James Madison program. He expressed a belief that the program’s potential is high, especially with support from the university and its community. “The sky’s the limit for this program,” he remarked, indicating a commitment to building on this season’s achievements.
Conclusion: Building a Legacy
- Final Score: Oregon 51, James Madison 34
- Season Record: 12-2
- Key Losses: Complementary football issues and 13 penalties
- Coach’s Highlights: Emotional team bond and impressive offensive display in the second half
- Future Outlook: Strong potential for the next season
As the team reflects on their experiences, the focus will shift to preparation for the next season, with hopes of building on the foundation established this year.
