During Saturday’s 125th Army-Navy game, Landon Robinson stood out as a key player on Navy’s defense. In a pivotal moment early in the fourth quarter, the 6-foot, 285-pound nose guard made a significant impact on special teams, securing a memorable place in Naval Academy football history. With Navy facing a fourth-and-5 at their own 47-yard line, it seemed like Army was on the verge of making a crucial defensive stop. As Navy lined up to punt, the Corps of Cadets were energized, chanting and turning their attention towards the fans in the stands above them. However, when the ball was snapped directly to Robinson, the Cadets fell silent as he burst through the line with a clear path ahead. Robinson galloped 29 yards to the Army 27-yard line, converting a first down that dealt a significant blow to the Black Knights. Despite losing possession of the ball as he was tackled, senior linebacker Colin Ramos recovered the fumble to secure the crucial first down. This play ultimately led to a touchdown, extending Navy’s lead by 15 points with less than nine minutes remaining in the game, a lead they successfully defended until the end. Robinson’s impressive run down the sideline signaled a surprising victory for Navy (9-3) over their fierce rival, resulting in a 31-13 win and the acquisition of the Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy after defeating West Point and the Air Force Academy earlier in the season. This victory marked Navy’s first CIC win in five years, achieving a significant milestone for the team’s seniors before their graduation. The strategic play call exemplified the thorough preparation by the Navy coaching staff, who had dedicated two weeks to game planning. Head coach Brian Newberry, in an interview with CNN prior to the game, hinted at the team’s extensive preparation. Navy’s defense effectively disrupted Army’s offensive strategy, forcing the typically run-heavy Black Knights to rely on passing plays to generate momentum. Robinson’s exceptional performance, recording 13 tackles, set the tone for a defensive line that contained the nation’s top rushing offense, limiting Army to just 113 yards on the ground compared to their usual 300-plus average. Army’s quarterback Bryson Daily struggled throughout the game, throwing three interceptions, including costly picks that led to Navy touchdowns. Navy’s dominant start, highlighted by a methodical 65-yard touchdown drive led by Blake Horvath, set the tone for the game. Despite Army’s formidable defense, Navy’s rushing attack, spearheaded by Horvath, effectively penetrated their defenses, giving Navy an early 7-0 lead. Army struggled to gain momentum in the first quarter, with Daily facing difficulties against Navy’s defensive line. The Black Knights managed only one first down in their initial possession, with their subsequent drive ending in a turnover that Navy capitalized on for another touchdown. Overall, Navy’s commanding performance from the start showcased their superiority over their rivals throughout the game.
After throwing an 18-yard touchdown pass to wide-open Brandon Chatman, Navy took a 14-0 lead early in the second quarter. Despite Newberry’s confidence in the Midshipmen’s readiness for Army’s run-heavy offense, the Black Knights failed to replicate their previous dominance on the field. In a surprising move, quarterback Daily attempted more passes in the first half than he had in almost all of his previous games this season, showing a shift in strategy by offensive coordinator Cody Worley.
A critical fourth-down pass for 18 yards extended a key drive for Army, leading to their first touchdown of the game shortly after. The momentum swung in Army’s favor, with Daily orchestrating a 23-yard scoring play that narrowed Navy’s lead. As the clock ticked down in the first half, Navy nearly scored again, but the resilient Army defense forced a punt.
Army started the second half strong, methodically advancing down the field with a mix of ground plays. Despite a pass interference call against Navy, Army settled for a field goal to close the gap to 14-10. Navy retaliated with a spectacular 52-yard touchdown pass, igniting their fans and widening the lead.
In a tense fourth quarter, Army struggled to convert opportunities into points, facing a determined Navy defense. A missed pass by Daily dashed Army’s hopes for a comeback, with Navy ultimately sealing the game with decisive plays, including a long rushing touchdown by Horvath. Navy’s lead extended to 31-13, as Daily’s third interception cemented their victory.
The Navy fans erupted in celebration, taunting their opponents, while the defeat cast a shadow over what had been a promising game for Army.
In a momentous season for Army, the Black Knights made history by securing the AAC conference championship with a victory over Tulane. With their sights set on achieving the program’s first-ever 12-win season, Army had one final opportunity to etch their names in the school’s record books at the upcoming Independence Bowl. However, Marshall University, their scheduled opponent for the bowl game, has withdrawn from the matchup due to a significant number of player transfers following the departure of their head coach for a new coaching position. Stepping up to take Marshall’s place in the highly anticipated bowl game is Louisiana Tech. This unexpected turn of events sets the stage for an intriguing showdown as Army looks to cap off their remarkable season with a historic 12th win.
The Army Black Knights have been a force to be reckoned with throughout the season, showcasing exceptional skill, determination, and teamwork on their path to success. Their journey culminated in a thrilling victory over Tulane that not only secured the AAC conference championship but also set the stage for a potential milestone achievement. A 12-win season would not only be a first for the Army football program but also a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players, coaches, and staff who have poured their hearts into this season’s success.
Despite the unexpected change in their bowl game opponent, Army remains focused and determined to make the most of this opportunity. Louisiana Tech, the new challenger in the Independence Bowl, will undoubtedly present a new set of challenges for the Black Knights. However, Army’s resilience and unwavering commitment to excellence have been the driving forces behind their success all season long, and they are poised to rise to the occasion once again.
As the final game of the season approaches, Army finds itself on the brink of history, with the chance to achieve a milestone that would solidify their place in the annals of college football. The Independence Bowl promises to be a thrilling and unforgettable matchup, as Army looks to cap off their remarkable season with a victory that would not only be a testament to their skill and determination but also a celebration of the camaraderie and spirit that have defined their journey.
Stay tuned for more updates as Army prepares to take on Louisiana Tech in the Independence Bowl, a game that is sure to be filled with excitement, intensity, and the potential for a historic moment that will be remembered for years to come. Don’t miss out on all the action – follow along with CNN for the latest news and updates on this thrilling conclusion to an unforgettable season for the Army Black Knights.
