When Does Army Play Navy in Football?
The Army-Navy Game is one of the most iconic and prestigious rivalries in college football, with a rich history dating back to 1890. The game pits the United States Military Academy (Army) against the United States Naval Academy (Navy) in a battle for supremacy on the gridiron. But when exactly do these two historic foes meet on the football field?
The Traditional Date
The Army-Navy Game is typically played on the last Saturday in December, with the exact date varying from year to year. This long-standing tradition has been in place since 1926, with the game usually taking place at a neutral site, often in the Eastern United States.
A Tradition Born of War
The rivalry between Army and Navy has its roots in the mid-19th century, when the two academies were established as a way to train future military leaders. The relationship between the two institutions has always been one of fierce competition, with the Army-Navy Game serving as the culmination of their athletic rivalry.
The Impact of War
The outbreak of World War I and World War II had a significant impact on the rivalry, as many of the student-athletes at both academies were deployed to fight overseas. During these times, the game was often played at reduced frequencies or even cancelled altogether.
Post-War Resurgence
Following World War II, the Army-Navy Game experienced a resurgence in popularity, with the game becoming an annual tradition once again. In 1946, the game was broadcast on national radio for the first time, and in 1957, it was televised for the first time on NBC.
Modern-Day Matchup
Today, the Army-Navy Game is one of the most highly anticipated and closely watched games in college football. The game is broadcast on CBS and is attended by a large and enthusiastic crowd. The winner of the game is awarded the coveted Arleigh Burke Trophy, which is presented to the head coach of the winning team.
Interesting Facts and Figures
- The Army-Navy Game has been played 121 times, with Navy holding a slim lead in the overall series, 61-53-7.
- The game has been played at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania since 2011, after previously being played at FedExField in Landover, Maryland.
- The game has been sold out every year since 1996.
- The Army-Navy Game is one of the most-watched college football games of the year, with over 4 million viewers tuning in annually.
Recent Years and Upcoming Matchups
Here is a breakdown of the recent years’ matchups:
| Year | Date | Location | Score | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | December 12 | West Point, NY | 27-17 | Navy |
| 2019 | December 14 | Philadelphia, PA | 31-7 | Navy |
| 2018 | December 8 | Philadelphia, PA | 17-10 | Army |
Upcoming Matchups
The 2022 Army-Navy Game is scheduled to take place on December 18th, 2022, at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Conclusion
The Army-Navy Game is a beloved tradition in college football, with a rich history and a passionate fan base. While the game may not be the most high-stakes matchup in terms of conference championships or bowl games, it is an event that transcends the sport itself, symbolizing the enduring rivalry between two of the country’s most prestigious military academies. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of one of the teams or simply appreciate the pageantry and tradition of the game, the Army-Navy Game is an event that is not to be missed.
