Go Navy, Beat Army: Midshipmen Aim for Glory in 126th Rivalry Clash

All eyes on Baltimore as Navy seeks the Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy, a bowl boost, and back-to-back wins over Army

The stakes don’t get higher—or prouder—than today’s 126th Army-Navy Game, kicking off at 3:00 p.m. EST at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore. The classic rivalry returns with more than just bragging rights on the line. With both academies having defeated Air Force earlier this season, today’s victor will hoist the Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy outright. For Navy, a win also means momentum heading into the Liberty Bowl. For Army, it’s about reclaiming ground in a series that Navy still leads 63–55–7.

Firepower vs. Fortitude: Navy’s Explosive Attack Meets Army’s Grit

Navy (9–2) enters with one of the best seasons in recent program history, sharing the American Athletic Conference regular-season title and packing the most dangerous offense of the service academies. At the helm is dual-threat quarterback Blake Horvath, whose ability to stretch the field through the air makes Navy's option game lethal. With over 800 receiving yards, slotback Eli Heidenreich has turned option looks into chunk plays all year.

Army (6–5), however, won’t be pushed around. The Black Knights have tightened defensively down the stretch, allowing 24 or fewer points in six of their last seven games. The trenches will be key—Army’s standout center Brady Small faces Navy nose tackle Landon Robinson, the AAC’s Defensive Player of the Year, in a battle that may decide the outcome.

The Ground Game is the Game

Expect the ball on the ground early and often. Army leads the nation in rushing attempts, and Navy sits right behind. Combined, these teams run the ball over 85% of the time. The clock will melt, every yard will be earned, and any mistake could swing the game.

A Trophy, A Legacy, and a 250-Year Salute

This game carries symbolic weight far beyond the scoreboard. Both teams are honoring the 250th anniversaries of their respective service branches with special commemorative uniforms. Pre-game traditions like the Cadet-Midshipman Exchange remind fans what sets this rivalry apart. When the final whistle blows, the teams will unite to sing both alma maters, a visual reminder that after today, these young men will serve together.

But first, they play—and the winner sings second.

Prediction: Navy 34, Army 20

Behind Horvath’s versatility and a defense that thrives in big moments, Navy looks primed to not only win the rivalry, but to do so convincingly. The Midshipmen have the edge in firepower, momentum, and leadership. Look for a complete performance as Navy brings home the Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy, heads to the Liberty Bowl with confidence, and caps a special season the right way.

Go Navy. Beat Army.