The iconic Army-Navy Game is set to return to the Washington, D.C. area, taking place on Saturday at 3 p.m. ET. This year marks the 125th edition of the celebrated rivalry, featuring No. 18 Army (11-1 overall) facing off against Navy (9-3). The game will be held at Northwest Stadium, home to the NFL’s Washington Commanders, and for the first time since 2017, the elusive Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy will be contested in a winner-take-all format, with both teams having bested Air Force in the regular season.
Traditionally played in Philadelphia, this year’s event emphasizes the significance of the military affiliations of both teams. Army will don its “Screaming Eagles” uniform, paying homage to the 101st Airborne Division from World War II, specifically in remembrance of the 1944 Battle of the Bulge. Meanwhile, Navy will commemorate the “Jolly Rogers,” a revered squadron in Naval Aviation, with their uniform attire.
Northwest Stadium, located in Landover, Maryland, has a seating capacity of 67,617 and first opened its doors in 1997. It is strategically located just over 30 minutes from the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, making it a relevant choice for this historic matchup.
Looking ahead, the 2024 Army-Navy Game will also be hosted at Northwest Stadium, which will further highlight the celebration of military traditions and the importance of service members and veterans in the community. D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser expressed enthusiasm for the event, emphasizing the city’s dedication to honoring the nation’s heroes through sports.
The Army-Navy Game has a rich history, with its last visit to Landover occurring in 2011, when Navy triumphed with a 27-21 victory. The enduring spirit and camaraderie fostered by the game are celebrated by both institutions, as the rivalry encapsulates values like servant leadership and dedication.
In a broader context, the Army-Navy Game serves as an annual reminder of the importance of teamwork, honor, and respect, values which resonate far beyond the football field and within the military and civilian communities alike. Fans can look forward to not only thrilling football action but also a showcase of the pride and values inherent in both academies.
Future venues for the Army-Navy Game promise to maintain the tradition of this storied rivalry through at least 2027, ensuring that new generations of fans continue to witness the spectacle that is “America’s Game.”