The storied rivalry between Army and Navy takes a new twist this year as the two service academies clash in the American Athletic Conference for the first time. With both teams coming off strong seasons, the 125th meeting promises to be a thrilling encounter.
In a season marked by significant shifts in college football, Army (11-1) and Navy (8-3) stood out early with impressive performances that sparked discussions about their potential inclusion in the inaugural 12-team College Football Playoff. This Saturday, the Midshipmen host the Black Knights at Northwest Stadium in Landover, marking a rare instance where both teams have won eight or more games, a feat previously achieved in 2016 and 1996.
Army, fresh from an undefeated run in conference play, secured the AAC title by defeating Tulane 35-14, earning them the 19th spot in the AP rankings. This season’s rivalry game presents a unique scenario: Army claimed the conference title without facing Navy. Despite this, the Army-Navy Game remains a significant opportunity for both teams to end their seasons on a high note.
“Every Army-Navy Game has that certain feel to it,” remarked Navy’s senior linebacker Colin Ramos. While acknowledging Army’s successful season, Ramos emphasized the importance of maintaining a consistent approach to the game.
Navy’s path to the title game was blocked by late losses to Rice and Tulane, yet they now have a chance to challenge the conference champions. The game’s timing allows for a memorable conclusion to an already remarkable season for both academies, potentially influencing future playoff selections.
Navy junior fullback Alex Tecza expressed his excitement, highlighting the buzz generated earlier in the season when both teams were undefeated. “The excitement’s there,” Tecza noted, pointing to the enthusiasm seen on social media platforms.
Despite missing out on a Top 25 ranking due to their November setbacks, the Midshipmen have regained stability with quarterback Blake Horvath set to return from injury. Horvath will face off against Army’s Bryson Daily, the AAC Offensive Player of the Year, promising an exciting quarterback battle.
Army enters the game with a two-game winning streak against Navy, last losing to the Midshipmen in 2021. While the rivalry remains deeply significant for those connected to either branch, this year’s game carries even more weight, given the teams’ recent successes.
Navy senior cornerback Deshaun Peele commented on the heightened anticipation surrounding the game, stating, “Both teams [are] coming in with a lot of momentum, having our best seasons of the past few years.” Despite this, Peele stressed the importance of treating the game with the same mindset as any other contest.
125th Army-Navy Game
When: Saturday, 3 p.m.
Where: Northwest Stadium, Landover
TV: CBS
Radio: 1430 AM
Line: Army by 6 1/2
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