James Madison unveils Marvel-themed helmets for Washington State game

Could JMU join the MCU at some point? While unlikely, the James Madison football team did unveil plans to sport Marvel superhero-themed helmets during the Dukes’ upcoming Nov. 22 game against Washington State, according to On3’s Brett McMurphy.

The left side of the helmet will feature the school’s normal block JMU logo, while the right side will have a decal of one of five Marvel superheroes, with Dukes players able to choose between Black Panther, Captain America, Hulk, Iron Man and Thor. The change is part of what James Madison is calling “the first-ever collegiate Marvel Super Hero Day” on Nov. 22.

💥 James Madison will wear Marvel super hero-themed helmets vs. Washington State on Nov. 22. One side will feature JMU’s block logo, players will choose 1 of 5 Marvel heroes – Iron Man, Captain America, Hulk, Thor or Black Panther – for other side of helmet pic.twitter.com/IoFc5Az5RF

— Brett McMurphy (@Brett_McMurphy) October 31, 2025

Along with wearing unique Marvel-inspired helmet decals, James Madison will also offer other superhero-themed opportunities during the Nov. 22 game against Washington State. The first 15,000 fans through the gate will receive a voucher for a unique souvenir poster designed by Marvel Comics that will feature the school’s mascot “Duke Dog” alongside some of Marvel’s most-popular characters. In addition, 2,000 select fans in attendance will receive a co-branded JMU and Marvel hat as a game day giveaway.

The school also plans to announce additional Marvel activations and contests over the next month, according to the team release. JMU fans are also encouraged to participate by dressing up as their favorite Marvel superhero as they cheer on the Dukes.

The Marvel Super Hero Day on Nov. 22 was made in coordination between JMU Athletics, the JMU Foundation, Inc, and AthLife, Inc., Marvel’s longtime sports firm representing the popular comic company.

James Madison, which is on a bye this weekend, is currently riding a six-game win streak and leads the Sun Beltwith a 7-1 overall record and 5-0 mark in conference play following last weekend’s 52-20 win over Texas State in San Marcos, Texas. Dukes junior quarterback Alonza Barnett III accounted for five total touchdowns in the game, including four scores on 12-of-18 passing and 264 yards through the air.

James Madison’s only loss this season came in Week 2 against Power Four competition, when host Louisville doubled up the Ducks 28-14 on Sept. 5.