The 126th edition of the Army-Navy Game is set to unfold on December 13, 2023, at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore. This storied rivalry features the Army Black Knights facing off against the Navy Midshipmen, with Navy entering the contest as the favored side. The stakes are high, with the coveted Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy awarded to the victor.
Navy holds a historical advantage, leading the all-time series with a record of 63 wins, 55 losses, and 7 ties. They are regarded as a touchdown favorite heading into the matchup, while Army seeks to leverage its recent momentum, having won three of the last four encounters. The Midshipmen are on a two-game winning streak and are eager to extend their success.
Key Matchups to Watch
Several individual battles could determine the outcome of this high-stakes encounter. For Army, junior quarterback Cale Hellums is a pivotal player to monitor. The dual-threat athlete from Tomball, Texas, has demonstrated his capabilities throughout the season, completing 35 of 69 passes for 504 yards and three touchdowns, alongside two interceptions. More notably, Hellums excels in rushing, amassing 1,078 yards and 15 touchdowns on 264 carries.
Navy defensive coordinator P.J. Volker is likely to assign linebacker MarcAnthony Parker the task of containing Hellums. Parker leads the Midshipmen defense with 88 tackles, complemented by two sacks and an interception. His performance will be crucial in ensuring that Hellums remains under pressure.
On the Navy side, wide receiver Eli Heidenreich stands out as a significant threat. The 6-foot playmaker has recorded 40 receptions for 805 yards and four touchdowns this season, averaging an impressive 20.1 yards per catch. Army cornerback Jaydan Mayes will likely take on the responsibility of covering Heidenreich, as he is the only Black Knights cornerback with an interception this year and ranks seventh on the team in tackles.
Quarterback Showdown
The matchup features two dynamic quarterbacks, each capable of changing the game’s dynamics. Navy’s senior quarterback Blake Horvath has completed 81 of 131 passing attempts, totaling 1,390 yards and nine touchdowns, while also leading the Midshipmen in rushing with 1,040 yards and 14 touchdowns. Horvath’s versatility will be critical to Navy’s success as they look to avoid an upset.
Army’s defensive coordinator Nate Woody has a wealth of experience, having joined the program in 2019 after serving as a defensive assistant at Michigan. Woody will rely on linebacker Andon Thomas, who leads all defenders with 96 tackles, to mitigate Horvath’s impact on the ground.
As both teams prepare for this fiercely contested game, the energy in Baltimore is palpable. With a storied legacy and annual bragging rights on the line, the 126th Army-Navy Game promises to be an unforgettable spectacle for fans and players alike. The enthusiasm surrounding this traditional rivalry is sure to create an electric atmosphere as both teams aim to secure victory on Saturday.
