When is the Notre Dame Navy Game?
The Notre Dame Fighting Irish and the Navy Midshipmen are two of the most storied programs in college football, and their annual matchup is one of the most highly anticipated games of the season. But when is this showdown taking place?
Game Date and Time
The Notre Dame Navy game typically takes place on the first Saturday of November, with the exact date and time varying from year to year. Here are the dates for the next few years:
| Year | Date | Time |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | November 5, 2022 | TBA |
| 2023 | November 4, 2023 | TBA |
| 2024 | November 2, 2024 | TBA |
Please note that the time for the game is usually announced a few weeks before the actual date.
Why is the Notre Dame Navy Game Important?
This game is a significant part of both programs’ schedules, and for good reason. Here are a few reasons why:
- Tradition: The Notre Dame Navy game has been a staple of the college football calendar since 1926, making it one of the longest-running rivalries in the sport.
- Rivalry: The two teams have a long and storied history, with the Fighting Irish holding a 75-13-1 advantage over the Midshipmen.
- Importance: The game is often considered a must-win for the Midshipmen, as it’s a chance to knock off a top-notch opponent and prove themselves as a force to be reckoned with.
- Impact on Playoff Chances: The outcome of this game can have a significant impact on both teams’ playoff chances, as wins over top opponents can go a long way in deciding the fate of a season.
History of the Game
The Notre Dame Navy game has been played continuously since 1926, with the exception of 1943-1949, when the game was suspended due to World War II. Over the years, the game has produced some memorable moments, including:
- The Four Blue Stars: In 1947, the Notre Dame Navy game was interrupted by a flyover from four P-51 Mustang fighter jets, which drew a blue ribbon around the stadium to commemorate the four Allied powers (USA, UK, France, and Soviet Union) who fought together during World War II.
- The "Knute Rockne Memorial Trophy": In 1931, the game featured a halftime ceremony in which the "Knute Rockne Memorial Trophy" was presented to the winner of the game, in honor of the legendary Notre Dame coach who died in 1931.
- The "Crash Helmets": In the 1950s, the game became known as the "Crash Helmets" due to the intense physical play and rivalry between the two teams.
Recent Matchups
Here are the results from the last few years’ Notre Dame Navy games:
| Year | Score |
|---|---|
| 2021 | Notre Dame 34, Navy 6 |
| 2020 | Navy 28, Notre Dame 27 (OT) |
| 2019 | Notre Dame 52, Navy 20 |
| 2018 | Notre Dame 44, Navy 22 |
As you can see, Notre Dame has dominated the series in recent years, with the Midshipmen still seeking their first win since 2019.
Conclusion
The Notre Dame Navy game is one of the most iconic and storied rivalries in college football, with a rich history and tradition of intense matchups. Whether you’re a die-hard Fighting Irish or Midshipmen fan, this game is an event not to be missed. Make sure to mark your calendars for the first Saturday in November and get ready to witness some of the most exciting football of the year!
