Army-Navy Game Recap: Trump Steals Halftime Show

Army-Navy Game Recap: Trump Steals Halftime Show

3 minute read
Published: 12/15/2024

In a thrilling 125th Army-Navy Game, Navy overpowered Army 31-13, snatching back the Commander-in-Chief's Trophy with quarterback Blake Horvath leading the charge—and of course, President-elect Trump cheering from the sidelines.

This decisive victory allowed Navy to reclaim the Commander-in-Chief's Trophy for the 17th time, marking their first win in the rivalry since 2021. With quarterback Blake Horvath throwing for a whopping 311 yards and four touchdowns, the Midshipmen showcased their prowess, leaving Army's squad reeling with just 178 yards of total offense and two turnovers. As both teams gear up for their bowl games, Navy stands proud at 63 wins to 55 losses with 7 ties in the all-time series, while fans eagerly await next year’s faceoff in Baltimore.

The game took place at Northwest Stadium in Landover, Maryland, a fitting venue for a confrontation steeped in history. In front of a star-studded crowd that was notably graced by President-elect Trump, Navy's performance proved to be worthy of any halftime show. The cheers and jeers echoed throughout the stadium, surely creating a fine atmosphere for those too wrapped up in the snacks to actually notice the score.

Navy's offense, a well-oiled machine, amassed an impressive total of 378 yards, effectively utilizing their playbook as though it were a culinary recipe—lots of ingredients, a pinch of creativity, and zero turnovers. Meanwhile, Army's strategy was about as effective as a map made in crayon. Coach needs to get on the phone to those who designed the blueprint for their 178 yards of offensive creativity.

Horvath, with his impressive stats, wasn't just a quarterback; he was more like a general leading an army, albeit a rather well-mannered one. His four combined touchdowns could almost be considered a masterclass in how to swing the pendulum of momentum in one’s favor. Opinions from the peanut gallery suggested that he might even be in line for an award, presumably something less formal than a participation trophy.

Brandon Chatman added to Navy's dominance with a touchdown during the first half, proving that he can navigate the defense with dexterity typically reserved for threading a needle in a hurricane. The Midshipmen wasted no time seizing control, with their fake punt play being the cherry on top of a cake made of well-executed tactics. As they executed the trick play, the Army team was left wondering if they had inadvertently stepped into a magic show without a ticket.

After this bout of sporting passion, both teams will soon make their way to their respective bowl games—though one suspects Navy might bring the trophy on a victory lap. With a renewed sense of history and rivalry under their belts, this game will remain a cherished memory, at least until that fateful encounter in Baltimore next year when the two teams will battle for supremacy anew. Baltimore residents, brace yourselves for a festival of spirited rivalry, questionable decision-making, and likely a few more turnovers.

All said and done, Navy walked away not only with the trophy but the mental advantage for the next round. Navy reclaimed the Commander-in-Chief's Trophy for the 17th time, a seemingly proud piece of hardware that could be mistaken for the crown jewel of a rather competitive collection. Here's hoping it will make its way to the Midshipmen's next set of matches because after such a display, let’s face it: they might as well aim for the next trophy too.