At 7-0, James Madison's football team was off to its best start in program history. Eye-popping numbers on offense, one of the nation's best FCS gameday atmospheres and the nation's only Division I top-15 matchup provided the backdrop as everything came together to create the perfect scenario to put Harrisonburg in the national spotlight. Fans came out in unprecedented numbers to support the No. 4 Dukes and to show the country what JMU Nation is all about.
"It was one of the most enthusiastic and largest crowds we have seen over the years! In my opinion, it was one of the greatest shows we ever put on. And of course the topper was my skit as James Madison – it was so much fun to end the show like that. I hope we can return again to Harrisonburg!"
– Lee Corso, ESPN College GameDay Analyst
"Without question, College GameDay left a lasting impact on our campus and among our various fan groups. Certainly the media dollar value and other research data points to tremendous exposure for our university. However, beyond that, it has opened so many new doors in terms of new prospective donors, recruiting impact, fan engagement and overall school pride.
It changed the game for how the outside world views James Madison University, and it helps us immensely in our push to make JMU a nationally-relevant university. I suspect we will continue to feel the impact well into the future."
– Jeff Bourne, JMU Athletic Director
