James Madison University defeated Wagner 87-3 on September 12, 2026, in Harrisonburg, Virginia, tying an NCAA record with three punt-return touchdowns and setting a program record for points in a single game, according to the Associated Press and ESPN.
Historic Punt Returns Power JMU Offense
According to the Associated Press, Michael Scott returned two punts for touchdowns, while teammate Miles Halbert blocked and returned another punt for a score. That trio of special teams touchdowns tied the NCAA single-game record for punt-return scores.
According to the ESPN play-by-play log, Halbert opened the scoring less than two minutes into the first quarter with a 9-yard punt return touchdown following a four-play Wagner series. Scott added a 76-yard punt return score late in the second quarter and a 69-yard punt return touchdown in the third quarter.
Record-Setting Offensive Output
James Madison accumulated 588 total yards of offense while holding Wagner (1-2) to 204 total yards, according to ESPN team statistics. Running back George Pettaway scored three rushing touchdowns in the first half on runs of 1 yard, 1 yard, and 32 yards. Running back Nick Herman added two rushing touchdowns, including a 77-yard burst in the third quarter.
Quarterback Camden Coleman completed 12 of 18 passes for 171 yards and one touchdown, connecting with Za’Ron Collins on an 18-yard score in the third quarter. Backup quarterback Arrington Maiden added two touchdown passes in the fourth quarter, finding KD Mosley for 20 yards and Miles Halbert for a 44-yard score. Phoenix Donghia capped the scoring with a 1-yard touchdown run with 22 seconds remaining in the game.
Matchup Context and Next Steps
Wagner’s only points came on a first-quarter field goal, as the Seahawks fell to 0-1 in Northeast Conference play and 1-2 overall. James Madison improved to 2-0 on the season ahead of its upcoming schedule in the Sun Belt Conference East division. According to CBS Sports, the Dukes continue their season on September 19, 2026.
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