Game Details
Army Black Knights (11-1 SU, 8-4 ATS) vs. Navy Midshipmen (8-3 SU, 7-4 ATS)
Date/Time: December 14th, 3:00 PM ET
Where: Northwest Stadium
Weather: Check local forecast closer to kickoff
Betting Odds
Point Spread: Army -6.5 (-115) | Navy +6.5 (-105)
Money Line: Army -275 | Navy +210
Over/Under Total: 39.0 (u -110 / o -110)
Game Overview
Army enters this year’s rivalry game as the clear favorite, boasting an impressive 11-1 SU record and an undefeated 7-0 home record. The Black Knights have been a dominant force in the AAC this season, particularly on the ground, averaging 247.7 rushing yards per game (8th nationally). Their defense has been just as impressive, allowing only 15.0 points per game (7th in the nation).
Navy comes in at 8-3 SU and 7-4 ATS, but they’ve struggled against elite competition. Their offense is one-dimensional, ranking near the bottom of the FBS in passing yards (88.8 YPG). While their rushing attack has been efficient (5.4 yards per carry), they face a massive challenge against Army’s top-ranked rushing defense, which allows just 104.0 yards per game.
Key Matchups and Analysis
1. Army Rushing Attack vs. Navy Run Defense
Army’s offense revolves around its elite rushing game, averaging 247.7 yards per game and 5.4 yards per rush. Navy’s defense has struggled against the run, ranking 53rd nationally and giving up 4.0 yards per carry. Army’s ability to grind down opponents with long, methodical drives will wear out Navy’s front seven.
2. Navy’s Limited Passing Game
Navy’s passing offense has been non-existent, averaging just 88.8 yards per game. Against Army’s disciplined defense, which ranks 34th in passing yards allowed (193.9), Navy will struggle to keep drives alive when forced into third-and-long situations.
3. Defensive Dominance
Army’s defense has been lights out this season, holding opponents to just 15.0 points per game (7th nationally) and 297.9 total yards (10th). Navy’s offense is unlikely to break through, especially given their inconsistency against strong defensive units this year.
Betting Pick and Rationale
This game sets up perfectly for Army to cover the 6.5-point spread. The Black Knights’ dominant rushing attack will control the pace and time of possession, while their elite defense will stifle Navy’s one-dimensional offense. Navy’s inability to generate a passing attack makes it hard to envision them keeping up.
Pick: Army -6.5
Prediction: Army 27, Navy 10
Army’s physical play on both sides of the ball will prove too much for Navy to handle. Expect a convincing Black Knights win to wrap up another dominant season.