Bryson Daily made history in the American Athletic Conference championship game by rushing for four touchdowns, tying the conference record and leading the No. 24 Army to a commanding 35-14 victory over Tulane. Daily’s impressive performance earned him the Mike Aresco Most Outstanding Player award, and it marked a fitting end to Army’s perfect inaugural season in the AAC, finishing with an impressive 11-1 record.
In addition to Daily’s standout plays, Kanye Udoh contributed significantly with 158 rushing yards, including a notable 72-yard run that helped set up one of Daily’s touchdowns. Daily himself rushed for 126 yards, demonstrating the power of Army’s formidable rushing attack throughout the game. His touchdowns were from 5, 3, 4, and 7 yards, pushing his season total to a record-breaking 29, surpassing the previous AAC record of 25 set by Navy’s Will Worth in 2016. Daily’s consistent excellence was evident as he has achieved multiple touchdowns in ten consecutive games.
Army’s victory not only awarded them their first conference championship in a history spanning 134 years, but it also underscores the program’s transition from independence to conference play. Coach Jeff Monken indicated that being part of a conference could provide the necessary pathway to participate in the newly expanded college football postseason, a goal that the Black Knights seem well on their way to achieving.
On the other hand, Tulane struggled throughout the match, with Darian Mensah throwing two touchdown passes but suffering crucial turnovers, including botched field goals and turnovers after key drives. This defeat marks a tough continuation for the Green Wave, who have now lost their last two AAC championship games.
Overall, Army’s triumph in their first AAC championship serves as an inspiring story of perseverance and success, as they look forward to a promising future in college football.
Summary: In the American Athletic Conference championship, Army’s Bryson Daily rushed for four touchdowns, tying the conference record and securing a 35-14 victory over Tulane, marking Army’s first conference title in 134 years. Army finishes its first AAC season with an 11-1 record, while Tulane faces challenges after its third consecutive AAC championship loss.