Saturday will mark the 125th edition of the Army-Navy game, a monumental occasion for one of America’s most cherished sports rivalries. This year, the game is set to take place near Washington D.C., a location that has only hosted the event once before. The anticipation is palpable as fans gear up for this historic matchup.
Current Records and Rivalry Dynamics
As the teams prepare to clash, the Navy Midshipmen hold a slight edge in the all-time series against the Army Black Knights, leading 62-55-7. However, recent history favors Army, who have triumphed in the last two encounters, three of the last four, and six of the last eight. This season, Army boasts an impressive 11-1 record, with their only defeat coming at the hands of Notre Dame, while Navy stands at 8-3. The stakes are high, and the atmosphere is electric!
Stadium Details for the Army-Navy Game
This year’s game will take place at Northwest Stadium, formerly known as FedEx Field, which has been home to the Washington Commanders since 1997. The stadium has a capacity of 67,617 and previously hosted the Army-Navy game in 2011, where Navy emerged victorious with a score of 27-21 during their remarkable 14-game winning streak against Army.
Why Landover? The Significance of the Location
So, why is the Army-Navy game being played in Landover? In 2022, it was announced that the game would return to this venue after a 13-year hiatus. Landover is strategically positioned just 30 minutes outside of Washington D.C., making it the closest any current or former host city has been to the nation’s capital. This proximity not only enhances the experience for fans but also symbolizes the connection between the game and the military presence in the region. Landover is also conveniently located about 30 minutes from Annapolis, the home of the United States Naval Academy.
Future Locations for Army-Navy Games
Looking ahead, the Army-Navy game will continue to travel to exciting locations. Here’s a glimpse of the upcoming games:
Date | Location | Stadium |
Dec. 13, 2025 | Baltimore, MD | M&T Bank Stadium |
Dec. 12, 2026 | East Rutherford, NJ | MetLife Stadium |
Dec. 11, 2027 | Philadelphia, PA | Lincoln Financial Field |
The Legacy of the Army-Navy Game
The Army-Navy game has a rich history that dates back to its inception in 1880. This year marks the 125th edition of this storied rivalry. For many years, Philadelphia served as the primary host city, but in recent decades, the location has shifted more frequently. The tradition and pageantry surrounding the game have only grown, making it a must-see event for college football fans and military supporters alike.
Host City History: A Look Back
The first Army-Navy game was played in 1880, and since then, the matchup has seen various host cities. Philadelphia has hosted a staggering 90 games, with the most recent occurring in 2022. Other notable locations include New York City, Baltimore, East Rutherford, and even as far as Pasadena, California. Here’s a breakdown of the host cities and the number of games played there:
City | Number of Games | Most Recent Game |
Philadelphia, PA | 90 | 2022 |
New York City | 11 | 1931 |
Baltimore, MD | 6 | 2016 |
East Rutherford, NJ | 5 | 2021 |
West Point, NY | 4 | 2020 |
Annapolis, MD | 3 | 1942 |
Landover, MD | 2 | 2024 |
Foxborough, MA | 1 | 1984 |
Pasadena, CA | 1 | 1983 |
Chicago, IL | 1 | 1926 |
Princeton, NJ | 1 | 1905 |
Looking Forward to the Game
As fans prepare for this year’s Army-Navy game, the excitement is undeniable. With both teams bringing their best to the field, it’s a celebration of tradition, competition, and camaraderie. The Midshipmen may enjoy a slight home-field advantage, being just 30 minutes from their campus, but the Black Knights are ready to defend their recent dominance in this fierce rivalry.
This game is more than just a matchup; it’s a tribute to the spirit of competition and the dedication of the men and women who serve in our military. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual observer, the Army-Navy game promises to deliver unforgettable moments and a showcase of the best that college football has to offer.