When Does Navy Play Army?
The annual Army-Navy Game is one of the most highly anticipated and revered sporting events in the United States. The game pits the United States Naval Academy’s Midshipmen against the United States Military Academy’s Black Knights, with the winner claiming the Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy. But when exactly does this historic matchup take place?
The Schedule
The Army-Navy Game is typically played on the second or third Saturday in December. The exact date may vary from year to year, but it usually falls within this timeframe. The game is always played on a Saturday, and it is broadcast nationally on television.
History of the Game
The first Army-Navy Game was played in 1890, with the Midshipmen emerging victorious 24-0. The game has been played annually since then, with the exception of a few years during World War I and World War II. The game has been played at various locations over the years, including Philadelphia’s Franklin Field, Baltimore’s M&T Bank Stadium, and Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia.
Tradition and Pageantry
The Army-Navy Game is steeped in tradition and pageantry. The game is often referred to as the "Game of the Century" due to its significance and the prestige that comes with winning. The teams’ marching bands, the Navy Midshipmen Glee Club and the Army West Point Band, perform during the pre-game festivities, adding to the excitement and atmosphere.
Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy
The winner of the Army-Navy Game claims the Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy, which is awarded to the team that wins the most games in a three-year period. The trophy is a symbol of the rivalry between the two service academies and is presented to the winning team by the President of the United States.
Recent Results
Here is a table showing the results of the Army-Navy Game over the past few years:
| Year | Winner | Score |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | Navy | 31-7 |
| 2019 | Navy | 31-7 |
| 2018 | Navy | 10-3 |
| 2017 | Navy | 14-13 |
| 2016 | Navy | 21-17 |
Upcoming Game
The 2023 Army-Navy Game is scheduled to take place on December 16, 2023, at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. The game is expected to be a highly competitive and intense matchup, with both teams vying for the Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy.
Conclusion
The Army-Navy Game is a beloved and iconic sporting event that showcases the best of American football and the values of the United States military. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the Midshipmen or the Black Knights, the game is an experience not to be missed. So mark your calendars for the second or third Saturday in December and get ready to cheer on your favorite team as they battle for the Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When is the Army-Navy Game?: The Army-Navy Game is typically played on the second or third Saturday in December.
- Where is the Army-Navy Game played?: The game is usually played at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, but it has been held at other locations in the past.
- What is the Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy?: The Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy is awarded to the team that wins the most games in a three-year period.
- How often is the Army-Navy Game played?: The game is played annually, with the exception of a few years during World War I and World War II.
Important Dates
- December 16, 2023: 2023 Army-Navy Game at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia
- Second or third Saturday in December: Typical date range for the Army-Navy Game
