The Army vs. Navy rivalry continues to captivate sports fans—and this year’s 126th edition promises to be no different. But here’s where it gets interesting: the stakes are high, and the stories behind these teams add layers of significance that go beyond just football. As the college football season wraps up, one of the most iconic and emotionally charged matchups in all of sports is set to take center stage, showcasing tradition, competition, and a fierce rivalry that has persisted for over a century.
Live updates, highlights, and in-depth analysis will follow as the iconic Army and Navy teams face off to conclude their 2025 college football campaign.
On December 13, 2025, in Baltimore, Maryland, the legendary encounter will occur, as the Midshipmen of Navy arrive as 6.5-point favorites, riding a solid 9-2 record that nearly took them to the American Championship. A victory would mark Navy's first back-to-back seasons with 10 wins in their long history, a milestone considering their football program has been active for over a hundred years.
Navy’s star is Blake Horvath, whose performance in last year’s game was nothing short of extraordinary. He ran for 196 yards and scored twice on the ground, and added another 107 yards with two touchdowns through the air, leading to a decisive 31-13 Navy win. Horvath has carried that momentum into this season, leading a potent Navy offense that specializes in breaking long rushing plays, making them a constant threat for explosive yardage.
Meanwhile, Army aims to disrupt Navy’s quest for history in an underdog role that fits their identity well. The Black Knights began the 2025 season slowly, with a 1-3 record, but finished strong—winning five of their last seven games. Their success came from embodying their traditional strengths: a resilient defense that can grind out tough wins and slow down their opponents.
There’s truly nothing comparable to the Army-Navy Game, and fans can expect another riveting contest between these historic rivals. If you want to experience the action live, tune in at 3 p.m. ET on CBS or stream it live via CBS Sports’ digital platforms, including CBSSports.com, the CBS Sports App, and Paramount+ Premium. Stay tuned here for real-time updates, in-depth analysis, and exciting highlights from the game.
Live Play-by-Play and Highlights
Early in the game, Navy strikes first on a memorable run by Blake Horvath. After Army deferred possession, Navy executed a meticulous 75-yard drive over 13 plays, taking nearly eight minutes in the first quarter to set the tone, ultimately leading to a 7-0 score. Horvath finished the drive with a 5-yard rushing touchdown on a cleverly executed third-and-2, slipping through a gap on the right side of the line.
Navy’s offensive approach appears dynamic and premeditated, with intentional deceptive looks before the snap to confuse Army’s defense and create rushing openings. This strategy has allowed Navy to advance into the red zone early on, controlling the game’s tempo.
Highlighting Navy’s physical strength, their star nose guard Landon Robinson is a player to watch. Robinson, a regular on “The Athletic’s Freaks List,” is renowned for his extraordinary strength—he’s about to squat an astonishing 650 pounds with a custom long barbell. Standing at 6 feet, weighing 285 pounds, Robinson is a two-time all-conference performer and one of the most physically dominant players in college football. His prowess on the field is matched by his impressive physical feats, making him a formidable presence that Navy relies on heavily.
The game uniforms will pay homage to 250 years of service, reflecting the rich heritage of these academies. Every year, the matchup is a spectacle—not just for the game itself but also for the tradition and pageantry displayed, including special uniforms that honor the military legacy.
Predicting the outcome is always challenging in this rivalry. While many odds favor Navy, the game has a history of surprises, especially when Army’s defense tightens up in the second half. The Black Knights may attempt to slow down the game, making it a gritty, hard-fought contest. However, Navy’s explosive potential—particularly through Horvath’s passing and run game—could prove decisive in the end.
The key to victory will likely hinge on ball security and field position. Both teams are disciplined when it comes to protecting the football; Army has only lost five fumbles all year, while Navy has surrendered just six. This careful ball handling makes turnovers rare, but any mistake could swing momentum significantly.
Special teams will also play a crucial role. Precise punting and field goal execution are essential in these low-scoring battles. Both teams’ kickers, Dawson Jones for Army and Nathan Kirkwood for Navy, have been reliable this season, with Jones perfect on extra points and Kirkwood perfect on PATs and with a strong record on field goals.
Explosive plays, though rare, can be the game-changers. Navy has been more prolific in generating long gains—ranking fourth nationally in 20+ yard runs—thanks to Horvath’s improved passing game, which adds a layer of unpredictability. Army’s offense, rooted in the option, tends to grind slowly but can surprise with a big run or pass. Overall, Navy’s more balanced attack and big-play ability give them an edge, but in this rivalry, any given play can turn everything around.
In conclusion, the 2025 Army vs. Navy battle promises to be a thrilling contest. With the storied traditions, tight competition, and high stakes, spectators can expect a game filled with heart, grit, and legend-making moments. Do you believe Navy’s explosive playmaking will dominate, or will Army’s disciplined defense pull off an upset? Share your thoughts and predictions below—this rivalry always invites passionate debate.
