“Beat Navy!”
Whether you’ve served in the U.S. military or simply recognize the significance of the Army vs. Navy football rivalry in sports history, it’s safe to say that this matchup has created some unforgettable moments.
This legendary competition has attracted fans, family, alumni and presidents for more than 130 years. Last year in Philadelphia, more than 50,000 people visited for the highly anticipated game and the experience that comes with it.
With this year’s game quickly approaching—December 9 at Gillette Stadium near Boston—we’re looking back at some of the greatest Army vs. Navy moments in football history.
The first game—1890
It’s hard to back down from a challenge, so when the Naval Academy approached West Point to play a little football, the answer of course, was yes. It didn’t matter that Navy had an organized team with over 10 years of experience and Army didn’t. Army took the bait, playing their first organized football game and kicking off what has become one of the most legendary rivalries in sports history. Navy shut out Army at West Point 24-0—but of course, this was only the beginning.
The first helmet—1893
Knowing what we know today about the physical nature of football, it’s hard to believe the game was once played without protective gear. Although the game itself wasn’t anything spectacular—Navy beat Army 6-4—it was a new style on the field that made history. Having overcome several injuries, Navy’s Joseph Mason Reeves determined he needed some protective equipment to stay in the game. He worked with a local shoemaker to design a leather helmet, debuting the first during this particular game. It took another 27 years for the helmet to become an official part of the football uniform.
The tie game—1926
The 1926 matchup had a lot at stake. Held at Soldier Field in Chicago—dedicated as a memorial to those who died in World War I—both Navy and Army were undefeated going into this game. Army had one previous tie on its season record against Notre Dame. This was a highly anticipated game, drawing a crowd of more than 100,000 spectators that included top government and military officials. It was such a big deal it was broadcast nationally on the radio. This hard-fought game ended in a 21-21 tie, with Navy ultimately taking home the national title.
The Kennedy Assassination—1963
Just days after the Cuban Missile Crisis ended in 1962, President John F. Kennedy attended the Army vs. Navy game in Philadelphia and participated in the ceremonial coin toss. One year later, players and spectators mourned the loss of Kennedy—who had served in the Navy for five years—at a game that almost didn’t happen. Kennedy was assassinated on Nov. 22, 1963. The game fell within the 30-day national period of mourning. With the encouragement of the Kennedy family, the rivalry was postponed one week and played on December 7, the anniversary of Pearl Harbor. Navy beat Army 21-15.
Another notable moment of the game included the debut of new technology. For the first time, CBS viewers were able to watch instant replays.
The first African-American player—1964
Philadelphia has been a favorite location for the Army vs. Navy football game through the years, as it is conveniently situated about halfway between the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, New York, and the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. Known as a symbol of independence and freedom, Philadelphia also was the perfect location for a historic moment during the 1964 game. Calvin Huey, a sophomore wingback at the Naval Academy, was the first African-American to play for either side. Although Army ultimately beat Navy 11-8, Huey made four successful passes for Navy during the game.
The final game for Coach Blaik—1958
A U.S. Military Academy grad, Earl Henry "Red" Blaik was called up as head coach of his alma mater in 1941. Over 18 seasons, Blaik compiled a 121–32–10 record. Starting in 1944, he coached a 32-game winning streak, earning national titles in 1944 and 1945. The following year, Army completed their season as second in the nation, and Blaik was named AFCA Coach of the Year. Among other accomplishments, Blaik coached three Heisman Trophy winners and 11 Hall of Famers. On Nov. 29, 1958, in Philadelphia, Blaik coached his final game with Army, winning 22-6 over Navy.
The first—and only—game west of the Mississippi—1983
In 1983, the West Point and Naval Academy students opted for a change of scenery, raising funds to play in the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, Calif. Although neither went into the game with a particularly stunning season, the draw was all about location. With more than 80,000 people in attendance, Navy claimed the game with a 42-13 win. Then, of course, both teams headed to Disneyland with their families.
The overtime win—2022
Can you believe it took this long to witness Army vs. Navy in overtime? Historic and memorable, to say the least! In double overtime, Army kicker Quinn Maretzki made a 39-yard field goal to seal their victory, 20-17. Army took the first overtime win in the history of the series.
Whether you get to join in the excitement this year as a spectator in Gillette Stadium, or you’re tuning in from the comfort from your home, we expect to hear you shout—BEAT NAVY!*
*Fun fact—Our Historia Collection™ hotel on West Point is named the Beat Navy House.
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