JMU ties NCAA record with 3 punt-return TDs, scores program record in 87-3 win over Wagner

HARRISONBURG, Va. (AP) — Michael Scott returned two punts for touchdowns and Miles Halbert blocked and returned another for a score as James Madison rolled past Wagner 87-3 on Saturday, tying the NCAA record for punt-return TDs and setting a program record for points.

The three punt-return touchdowns tied a record set several times, the last by USC against California in 2013. The Dukes' previous scoring high came in an 84-7 win over Rhode Island in 2016 with Saturday's margin of 84 their largest ever.

The Dukes (2-0) scored at least 21 points in every quarter. George Pettaway rushed for three touchdowns and Nick Herman ran for 132 yards and two more scores. Camden Coleman passed for 171 yards and a score and Arrington Maiden completed 7 of 8 passes for 111 yards with two TDs. Scott's punt-return TDs covered 76 and 69 yards.

Halbert, who also had a TD reception, blocked a punt in the second minute of the game and returned it 9 yards for a touchdown. The FCS Seahawks (1-2) then got their lone points on Johnny DiSalvatore's field goal before the rout began in earnest.

The Dukes scored on 10 of 12 possessions, including nine touchdowns.

The game was moved up 3 1/2 hours because of the threat of inclement weather.

Up next

Wagner: Plays at California next Saturday.

James Madison: Plays at San Diego State next Saturday.

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