Know Before You Go: 2026 Spring Game

HARRISONBURG, Va. – Fans will get their first look at the 2026 James Madison football program on Saturday, April 25 for the annual Spring Game, presented by Dukes Mayo.

Kickoff is scheduled for 2 p.m. at Bridgeforth Stadium and both admission and parking are free.

Fans are encouraged to enter through either Gate A or Gate B, which opens at 1 p.m. General parking opens at 10 a.m. in the Champions Deck and tailgating opens at that same time in Lots C5 (formerly F Lot), P and G.

JMU's clear-bag policy will be in effect at both gates. While walkthrough metal detectors will not be in place, all bags will be checked. Concessions and alcohol sales will be available on the lower concourse, nearest Gate A until the conclusion of the third quarter.

Fans attending can stop by the marketing table to pick up a keychain from Duke's Mayo, the presenting sponsor of the Spring Game. Additionally, the first 1,000 fans will receive a Year of JMU Football rally towel, courtesy of Door Gorilla.

With the possibility of inclement weather, umbrellas will be allowed inside Bridgeforth Stadium, but please respect your fellow Dukes fans by not opening in the stands to block their view of the game.

Members of the JMU Athletics Ticket Office will be on hand at the Guest Services Booth on the lower concourse to answer questions related to 2026 season ticket sales, as well as premium areas such as the APC Suites and East Side Premium. The 2026 football season ticket renewal, Entry Process and Duke Club Priority Point Deadline is May 15.

Fans not able to attend the game can listen to all the action with Dave Riggert on the Morris Insurance & Financial JMU Radio Network, with pregame beginning at 1:30 p.m.

Game Format

Two separate teams decided by coaching staff – Team Purple & Team Gold
Four 15-minute quarters with running clock
20-minute halftime
Normal game scoring (touchdown, field goal/PAT, two-point conversion, defensive touchdown)
All offensive/defensive situations are considered live, except for the quarterbacks
One team will begin the game with a 3-0 lead, based on result of a compete period from Thursday's practice

Spring Game Timeline

10 a.m. – Tailgate Lots Open (C5, P and G), General Parking Opens in Champions Deck
1 p.m. – Stadium Gates Open (A and B) – clear-bag policy in effect
1:40 p.m. – Marching Royal Dukes Perform (Stand Band) in North Endzone
1:55 p.m. – Both teams enter the field
1:57 p.m. – Coin Toss
2:00 p.m. – Kickoff
Halftime – Football Awards Ceremony

Postgame – Alma Mater in North Endzone