The historic Army-Navy game returns this Saturday, December 14 and marks the 125th meeting of these two storied programs. This year, the stage is Northwest Stadium in Landover, Maryland, with kickoff scheduled for 3 PM ET on CBS. The game promises a classic showdown of physicality, strategy and tradition, with both teams looking to close their regular seasons on a high note.

Army enters the game riding a wave of momentum after capturing the American Athletic Conference Championship in Week 15. On the other hand, Navy used Week 15 as a de facto bye, preparing for their biggest rivalry game while recovering key players.

Let’s break down what to expect from this year’s Army-Navy clash, highlighting each team’s season recap and key players.

Army Black Knights Season Recap

The Black Knights have enjoyed a remarkable season, advancing to an 11-1 record and clinching the AAC Championship with a commanding 35-14 victory over Tulane. Army’s success has been driven by their triple-option offense, anchored by dynamic QB Bryson Daily.

Daily was unstoppable in the championship game, carrying the ball 25 times for 126 yards and four touchdowns. His performance epitomized his season as one of the most prolific rushers in college football. With 1,485 rushing yards and 29 rushing touchdowns (tied for the national lead), Daily has proven to be Army’s engine on offense.

Defensively, Army has been stout against the run, an essential factor in a game where both teams heavily favor ground-and-pound offenses. With their only loss coming against Notre Dame, Army is poised to continue their recent dominance in this rivalry, having won 6 of the last 8 matchups against Navy.

Navy Midshipmen Season Recap

Navy enters the Army-Navy game with an 8-3 record and a lot of questions surrounding the health of QB Blake Horvath. As the leader of Navy’s triple-option attack, Horvath has been a game-changer this season, compiling 895 rushing yards and 13 rushing touchdowns in nine games. However, he has missed the last few weeks due to injury, and his return is critical for the Midshipmen’s chances.

Even without Horvath, Navy’s ground game remains formidable, but they have struggled against elite defenses. The Midshipmen’s last major test came against Tulane, where they were shut out in a 35-0 defeat. While their rest and preparation during Week 15 may give them an edge in readiness, questions linger about their ability to handle a disciplined Army squad.

Defensively, Navy has been inconsistent, particularly against the run, which could spell trouble against Army’s relentless rushing attack.

Army vs Navy Prediction

The Army-Navy game is always a test of will and execution, with both teams relying on their triple-option offenses to control the clock and limit mistakes. Given Army’s momentum from their AAC Championship victory and Navy’s questions surrounding Horvath’s health, the Black Knights appear to have the upper hand in this matchup.

Army’s defensive front, which has excelled in shutting down opposing run games, will likely be the deciding factor. While Navy’s defense has been vulnerable against the run, Army’s offense, led by Daily, has been firing on all cylinders. The Black Knights’ ability to control the pace and sustain long drives should ultimately tilt the game in their favor.

Since 2014, no Army-Navy game has surpassed 40 total points, and this year’s matchup looks to follow a similar script with two ground-heavy offenses. Expect a low-scoring affair dominated by methodical drives and disciplined play.

Daily’s rushing prowess has been the cornerstone of Army’s success this season, and he will undoubtedly be the focal point of their offensive attack on Saturday. With Navy’s defense struggling to contain elite rushing offenses, Daily is primed for another standout performance. Look for him to surpass 100 rushing yards as Army continues their recent dominance in this historic rivalry.

Our Pick: Bryson Daily to Record 100+ Rushing Yards