ANNAPOLIS, Md. — Navy cornerback Dashaun Peele made history by becoming the first player from the academy to return two interceptions for touchdowns in a single game, leading the No. 25 Midshipmen to a decisive 51-17 victory over Charlotte on Saturday. With this win, Navy improved to 6-0 for the first time since 1979 and maintained a perfect 4-0 record in the American Athletic Conference, clinching bowl eligibility for the first time since 2019. Meanwhile, Charlotte’s record fell to 3-4 overall and 2-1 in conference play.
Navy head coach Brian Newberry expressed confidence in his team’s focus and work ethic. “I thought we were going to be a bowl team, but it wasn’t solely about talent; it was also about character and the effort we put in,” he stated. Peele achieved interception returns of 61 and 84 yards, contributing to Navy forcing five turnovers, the team’s highest total since 2019. “I feel like I was at the right place at the right time,” Peele reflected. “Throughout the week, we were kind of working on those plays.”
Quarterback Blake Horvath completed 7 of 13 passes for 117 yards and threw three touchdown passes, bringing his season total to 10, just three shy of the school record set by Ricky Dobbs in 2010. Fullback Alex Tecza was instrumental in the first quarter, scoring three touchdowns through two rushing plays and a 46-yard reception.
Horvath acknowledged the importance of a strong start, saying, “It helps the defense out. It allows them to play more free.”
Tight end Cody Howard and wide receiver Brandon Chatman also contributed to the scoring with touchdown receptions of 11 and 19 yards, respectively. For Charlotte, quarterback Max Brown threw two touchdown passes, connecting with O’Mega Blake for a 20-yard touchdown and Duane Thomas Jr. for a 13-yarder.
Charlotte head coach Biff Poggi expressed frustration over the outcome, citing the importance of the game and their preparation. “To start that way was the last thing everyone thought would happen. Disappointing, but we go back to work.”
Despite the setback, Charlotte has seen success recently, winning three of their last five games with a roster featuring 71 newcomers. They hope to secure bowl eligibility for the first time since 2019.
Navy continues to showcase a potent offense and a defense that capitalizes on critical turnovers. The Midshipmen are in a strong position to contend for the American Athletic Conference title and potentially earn a spot in the College Football Playoff.
Navy had previously been perfect in the red zone, scoring touchdowns on all 20 attempts until Nathan Kirkwood’s 22-yard field goal late in the first quarter.
With their ranking for the first time since 2019, Navy could advance in the polls depending on the outcomes of other teams.
Looking ahead, Charlotte will play against Memphis next Saturday, while Navy faces No. 12 Notre Dame at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey the same day.