The Army football team’s remarkable winning streak came to an abrupt halt on Saturday at Yankee Stadium, where they faced off against a dominant Notre Dame squad, resulting in a 49-14 defeat. This loss not only ended their impressive season start but also marked the end of a 13-game winning streak, the longest in college football.
It has been since 1996 that Army began a season with a record of 9-0, a feat that was similarly cut short in their tenth game against a ranked Syracuse team. Despite the setback against Notre Dame, Army’s plans for postseason action remain intact as they will still be heading to a bowl game in the coming weeks.
From the outset, Notre Dame asserted control, racing to a 14-0 lead. Army struggled to find rhythm initially, having failed to score on their opening drive. However, senior quarterback Bryson Daily had a standout performance, adding two rushing touchdowns to his impressive season tally, which now stands at 23. This achievement places him in elite company, tying with the legendary Mike Mayweather for the most rushing yards in a single season.
Despite being a 14-point underdog, the Black Knights managed to maintain their No. 18 ranking in the AP Top 25, while Notre Dame climbed to the No. 6 spot.
Head coach Jeff Monken expressed disappointment but acknowledged the talent of Notre Dame, stating, “They just outclassed us in every facet tonight.” However, he is optimistic about his team’s resilience and maturity, emphasizing their capacity to bounce back: “These guys have been resilient all year… They were ready for this one; we just weren’t good enough tonight.”
Looking ahead, Army prepares for a crucial conference match against Texas San Antonio on November 30. With a strong focus on this upcoming game and their season’s potential, the team has much to work toward, including reclaiming the top position in the American Athletic Conference and participating in the prestigious Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy game against Navy.
This season, despite its ups and downs, highlights the unyielding spirit of the Army Black Knights. Their journey in the football season continues with the promise of exciting matchups ahead and the opportunity for redemption. This resilience and determination are traits that forge strong teams and might pave the way for future successes.