The Army-Navy Game: A Time-Honored Tradition
The Army-Navy game is one of the most iconic and storied rivalries in American college football. But what exactly is the Army-Navy game called? In this article, we’ll dive into the history and traditions surrounding this beloved event, as well as provide a brief overview of the current format.
What is the Army-Navy game called?
The Army-Navy game is officially called the Armed Forces Bowl, and it pits the United States Military Academy (Army) against the United States Naval Academy (Navy). The game is played annually on the second Saturday in December at a neutral site, with the location rotating between different cities each year.
History of the Army-Navy Game
The Army-Navy game has its roots in the early days of American football, with the first game played in 1890. West Point’s Army football team and Navy’s Midshipmen football team have been competing against each other ever since, with the game being played continuously since 1901. The two teams have met a total of 119 times, with Army holding a slim 60-54-7 advantage.
Significance of the Game
The Army-Navy game is more than just a football game – it’s a symbol of the deep and storied rivalry between the two military academies. The game is proudly sponsored by the United States Department of Defense, and it has become a tradition of excellence for both teams. The game has been played at iconic locations such as Philadelphia’s Franklin Field, Baltimore’s Memorial Stadium, and Dallas’ Cotton Bowl, among others.
Game Format and Schedule
The Army-Navy game is typically played on the second Saturday in December, with the teams competing in a 60-minute game. The game is divided into four quarters, with each team receiving a 15-minute halftime break. The game is televised nationally, with the broadcast being carried by CBS or ESPN.
Pre-Game and Halftime Ceremonies
The Army-Navy game is known for its pre-game ceremonies, which include the presentation of the Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy. The trophy is awarded to the winner of the game, and it’s a symbol of proud tradition for both teams. The pre-game ceremonies also include color guards, patriotic performances, and a massed singers performance by the choirs of both academies.
Halftime show
The halftime show at the Army-Navy game is a unique spectacle that combines music, dance, and military pomp. The show typically features a massed choir performance by the United States Army Choristers, the United States Navy Choristers, and the United States Air Force Academy Choristers. The halftime show also includes band performances, drumline performances, and drill team performances.
Ticket Information
Tickets for the Army-Navy game are highly coveted and extremely popular. The game has been sold out for over 20 years, with tickets often being purchased months in advance. Tickets can be purchased through the Army-Navy ticket office, and prices range from $50 to $200 per person, depending on the seating location.
Conclusion
The Army-Navy game is a time-honored tradition that has been a part of American football history for over a century. The game is a symbol of proud tradition for both the United States Military Academy and the United States Naval Academy, and it’s a celebration of the deep and storied rivalry between the two military academies. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just looking for a fun and unique football experience, the Army-Navy game is an event you won’t want to miss.
Additional Resources
- United States Military Academy (West Point) football team website: www.goarmywestpoint.com/athletics/football
- United States Naval Academy (Navy) football team website: www.navysports.com/sports/football
- Army-Navy Game website: www.usna.edu/anniversitygame
Game Statistics
| Year | Winner | Score | MVP |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | Army | 15-10 | RB C.J. Louis (Army) |
| 2019 | Navy | 31-7 | QB Malcolm Perry (Navy) |
| 2018 | Army | 10-3 | RB Jordan Fuller (Army) |
Recent Army-Navy Game Results
| Date | Location | Winner | Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| December 12, 2020 | Philadelphia, PA | Army | 15-10 |
| December 14, 2019 | Philadelphia, PA | Navy | 31-7 |
| December 8, 2018 | Baltimore, MD | Army | 10-3 |
Top 10 Moments in Army-Navy Game History
- 1890: The first Army-Navy game is played at West Point, with Navy winning 24-0.
- 1901: The game is played in Philadelphia, with Army winning 24-0.
- 1913: The game is played at the U.S. Naval Academy, with Navy winning 18-13.
- 1932: The game is played at Yankee Stadium, with Army winning 26-0.
- 1942: The game is played at Baltimore’s Municipal Stadium, with Navy winning 14-6.
- 1963: The game is played at Philadelphia’s Franklin Field, with Navy winning 21-15.
- 1974: The game is played at Baltimore’s Memorial Stadium, with Army winning 20-13.
- 1980: The game is played at Philadelphia’s Franklin Field, with Navy winning 24-14.
- 1996: The game is played at Dallas’ Cotton Bowl, with Navy winning 25-24.
- 2016: The game is played at Philadelphia’s Lincoln Financial Field, with Navy winning 48-45.
