Because James Madison is in its second year transitioning from FCS to FBS, the Dukes' bowl hopes are simple: they must hope there aren't 82 teams that win at least six games.
If there are 82 teams with at least six wins to fill the 41 bowls, then the Dukes' bowl hopes are done. Kaput.
James Madison, currently 6-0, could finish 12-0 as the nation's only unbeaten team, but it's ineligible for the College Football Playoff rankings. The Dukes also can't be considered for a New Year's Six bowl as the highest-ranked Group of Five conference champion since they're ineligible for the Sun Belt title.
Because it's the second year of the Dukes' two-year transition, JMU needs help to g et to a bowl. And I think they'll get it.