The Sun Belt Conference added its fourth new program as James Madison University officially accepted its invitation Saturday.
“This move brings another strong brand and passionate fan base into the Sun Belt,” said Keith Gill, Sun Belt commissioner.
The Dukes move up to FBS from FCS where they have been a traditional powerhouse, winning football national championships in 2004 and 2016. App State and James Madison faced off 16 times between 1980 and 2008, the Mountaineers winning 14 of those matchups.
“We are thrilled to have received and accepted an invitation to this conference, with a new and visionary opportunity for high-level competition within the Eastern Division,” James Madison University President Jonathan Alger said.