In the wise words from the great John F. Kennedy, “When you watch your contemporaries indulging the urge for material gain, comfort, and personal advancement, your choice will seem hard…Never forget, however, that the battle for freedom takes many forms.” This quote shows the importance and excellence of fighting for freedom. 

This Saturday, the United States Army will face the United States Navy in the 126th game. This historic college football rivalry, going on since 1890, has arguably been proven as the biggest rivalry in the sport of football.

This matchup is more than just a game. Players in this matchup are more than just football players—they are soldiers who have committed to serve and protect our country. In this game, they battle for pride, tradition, and share a deeper bond built on honor, and discipline. 

This rivalry gets intense, both schools have “Beat Army” or “Beat Navy” written everywhere. Off the field they are brothers; but on the field, they want to compete and that is what makes this rivalry so special and different.

Quarterback Blake Horvath is the leader of this year’s Navy team. Horvath has proven himself to be a great leader and rusher, leading the Midshipmen to an impressive 9-2 record so far this year. On the other side of the field is quarterback Cale Hellums, he has led the Black Knights to a 6-5 record this season. A year ago, the Midshipmen dominated against the Black Knights 31-13. Last year’s matchup will bring more anticipation to this year’s matchup.

“This matchup is so special. It is more than just a game, its players are serving our country, and facing off in the biggest game in football. I am excited to see who will win this exciting matchup,” says senior Logan Thurber.

Navy is favored to win this year’s game, but viewers are curious to see if Army will shock the college football world and win this year.