HotFootballTake: Military Edition Navy vs. UAB-Statement Opportunity in Annapolis
One week in, and Navy football already feels like a well oiled machine. The 52–7 thrashing of VMI wasn’t just a win—it was a reintroduction to what this team is capable of when the triple-option is executed with discipline, speed, and precision. Now, the Midshipmen return home to Annapolis for a test against UAB, a program with Power Five talent at key spots and a pass-first mentality that couldn’t be more different from what Navy brings to the table.
This isn’t just a clash of styles—it’s a test of identity. Navy wants to control tempo, own time of possession, and drag UAB’s defense into deep water. The Blazers? They want to score quickly, stretch the field, and make it a track meet. But Navy has something UAB doesn’t: a captain at the helm.
The Horvath Factor
For Navy fans, the story starts with Blake Horvath. The senior quarterback may not be the flashiest name on the roster, but he is the one this team trusts most. He was voted a captain for a reason—he runs this offense with poise, command, and total understanding of the system. Against VMI, he completed 6 of 7 passes for 66 yards and a touchdown, and while that might not jump off the stat sheet, it’s exactly what Navy needs: clean reads, sharp execution, and total control of the huddle.
Horvath doesn’t need 70-yard touchdown runs to change the game. His value shows in how smoothly the option operates when he’s under center. The ball security, the cadence, the pitch timing—it’s all there. And when defenses sell out to stop the run, he has the arm to make them pay. That’s not a luxury in this offense—it’s a weapon.
The Woodson Element
Of course, Navy fans have also seen what Braxton Woodson can do, and that’s what makes this quarterback room special. Woodson stole the spotlight last week with two long touchdown runs and 180 rushing yards in relief. He’s explosive, dynamic, and can shift the momentum of a game in one snap. But it’s important to remember: he’s still QB2. That’s not a knock—it’s the truth of a depth chart built around leadership and execution.
Woodson gives this team options. If the game opens up, if tempo shifts, if a spark is needed—he’s ready. But this game will start with Horvath for a reason: because he gives Navy the best chance to dictate the terms of engagement from the first drive on.
What The Goats Up Against
UAB rolled up 52 points last week in a shootout win over Alabama State. Quarterback Jalen Kitna, a well-known name with a big arm, threw for 247 yards and two touchdowns while completing 78% of his passes. His top target, Corri Milliner, nearly broke the 100-yard mark. But while the Blazers can score, they also gave up 42 points—and that’s where Navy can take control.
This is not a defense built to stop the option. They struggled to tackle, gave up chunk plays on the ground, and now have to prepare for the most unique offense in college football on short notice. That’s where Alex Tecza and Eli Heidenreich come in—two backs with totally different skill sets but the same mission: run right through you. And when UAB loads the box? Horvath will be ready to go over the top.
Defensive Readiness
The Navy defense was rock solid last week, but today is a different challenge. UAB isn’t running dive-option from under center—they’re spreading it out and letting it fly. This will be the first real look at how Navy’s secondary handles a vertical passing game, especially without safety Champ Anthony, who’s out with a broken thumb.
The pressure will fall on young defensive backs like Anquon Fegans and Eric Winters to step up against UAB’s speed. Up front, the defensive line has to win early and often. If they can collapse the pocket, force Kitna into rushed decisions, and create a turnover or two, Navy can flip this game fast.
Momentum, Matchups, and the Moment
This is exactly the kind of game you circle early in the season—not because it’s a guaranteed win, but because it’s a measuring stick. Beat a team like UAB, and you don’t just move to 2–0—you send a message that this year is different.
And if Navy does win, it’ll be because the offense stayed on schedule, the defense got off the field, and the captain—Blake Horvath—kept everything on time.
Projection: Navy 49, UAB 21
The Midshipmen's triple-option offense will live up to its reputation and have a huge day on the ground, wearing down UAB's defense and putting points on the board consistently. While UAB's air raid will find the end zone a few times, it won't be enough to keep pace with Navy's methodical and overpowering attack. It'll be a fun day for the home team in Annapolis.