Joe Theismann, the legendary former Notre Dame quarterback, is set to experience something he has long awaited: the annual Army-Navy game. Though he faced off against Navy during his college career from 1968 to 1970, he never had the chance to witness this storied rivalry firsthand. That changes this Saturday, as Theismann takes an active role in the festivities leading up to the 125th edition of “America’s Game” in Washington D.C., thanks to his partnership with USAA.
Excitement for America’s Game
“I’m excited to see it,” Theismann shared with enthusiasm. “I’ve never been to one. I can’t tell you how many people have come up to me and said, ‘Man, I would do anything and would love to be able to go.’ You mention the Army and Navy game, and people get more excited than when they say, ‘Oh, I am going to a Super Bowl.’ This isn’t just about two cities or two teams. This is about a nation coming together. These are future leaders running on the field.”
Theismann’s words carry weight, especially considering his experience as a two-time Super Bowl starter with Washington. The Army-Navy game, known for its rich history and tradition, will be held at Northwest Stadium in Landover, Maryland, for the first time since 2011. Out of the 125 meetings, over 100 have taken place in the Philadelphia and New York areas, where Theismann fondly recalls watching the game with his father in South River, New Jersey.
A Family Tradition
“We would make it a point on Saturday afternoon to watch the Army-Navy game,” Theismann reminisced. “My dad worked 13 hours a day, six days a week, but we would go to where he was working and watch the game together. We never wanted to miss it.” This personal connection to the game adds a layer of meaning to Theismann’s upcoming experience.
Reflecting on his college days, Theismann played against Navy three times but vividly remembers the matchup against Army on October 11, 1969, at Yankee Stadium. The pageantry and excitement of that day left a lasting impression on him. “When you see the young troops, when you see them march, when you see the energy and enthusiasm they have, it gets you excited,” he said. “I’m really excited to be in the stadium to see Army and Navy play.”
Current Season Highlights
As the game approaches, the teams are bringing their own stories into this historic matchup. No. 19 Army (11-1) recently clinched the American Athletic Conference championship with a decisive 35-14 victory against Tulane on December 6. Meanwhile, Navy (8-3) started the season strong, going 6-0. With both teams performing well, the anticipation for this game is palpable.
There have been discussions about the Army-Navy game’s place in the evolving landscape of college football, especially with the introduction of a new 12-team College Football Playoff. CBS recently announced an extension to keep the game on their network through 2038, which is great news for fans. However, Theismann has a strong opinion on keeping the game in its traditional spot, regardless of playoff implications.
The Importance of Tradition
“I would hope it would stay here,” Theismann stated emphatically. “It has a special place. It is the game of the weekend. It is the collegiate game of the weekend, and it deserves the attention that it gets. If you move it to the playoff picture, it just gets fitted in with other teams. I like that it stands alone and is recognized in that particular way.”
The stakes are high for this Saturday’s game, as the winner will earn the prestigious Commander-In-Chief’s Trophy, awarded to the team with the best record among Army, Navy, and Air Force. Last season, the Black Knights took home the trophy, adding another layer of intensity to this already special matchup.
Honoring Our Heroes
For Theismann, this game represents more than just football; it’s a tribute to those who serve. “These young men and women put on a uniform, and they are going to defend our freedom and represent our country around the world,” he said. “They’re going to protect us. When you see somebody in a uniform, the least you can do is say, ‘Thank you.'”
As part of his partnership with USAA, Theismann, along with fellow former Washington quarterback Robert Griffin III, participated in a special event at the National Mall, presenting retrofitted vehicles to Caleb Dooley (an Army family member) and Matthew Walker (a Navy family member). “These recycled rides and retrofitted vehicles are just a great way to say thank you to some military individuals. It speaks to the military community to let you know we care,” he explained.
With the excitement building for the Army-Navy game, fans and players alike are ready to witness a spectacle that transcends sports. This isn’t just another college football game; it’s a celebration of tradition, honor, and the spirit of competition. As Theismann prepares to take it all in, one thing is clear: the Army-Navy game is truly a remarkable event that holds a special place in the hearts of many.
