In a thrilling finish at the Armed Forces Bowl in Fort Worth, Texas, the Navy Midshipmen triumphed over Oklahoma with a final score of 21-20. The game turned dramatically when Navy’s Blake Horvath made a remarkable 95-yard touchdown run, setting a record, and later added a 6-yard touchdown that put Navy ahead with just over four minutes remaining.
Despite trailing 14-0 early in the game, Navy, with a final record of 10-3 for the season, showcased resilience, leveraging a strong defense and strategic plays. Coach Brian Newberry expressed pride in his team’s perseverance, highlighting the importance of overcoming adversity and fighting back when things looked bleak.
Oklahoma, who finished their season at 6-7, made a valiant effort to seize the win with a touchdown pass from Michael Hawkins Jr. to Jake Roberts just six seconds before the end. However, their decision to attempt a 2-point conversion for the win backfired when Hawkins was sacked, allowing Navy to secure the victory.
The win was a historic moment for Navy, marking their first win against an SEC opponent since 1955. With Horvath running for 155 yards and completing seven passes for 92 yards, the Midshipmen’s achievements not only reflect their talent but also position them strongly for the upcoming season, as they will return all offensive skill starters.
For Oklahoma, the game signifies a challenging season, seeing significant roster changes and the impact of players entering the transfer portal. However, the team’s experience in overcoming setbacks will serve them well as they aim for improvement in the future.
In summary, both teams displayed heart and determination throughout the game. This clash not only sets the stage for an exciting next season for Navy but also highlights the need for Oklahoma to regroup and refine their strategies moving forward. With lessons learned from this year’s challenges, both programs have the potential for a promising future.