Tulane University’s football team achieved a definitive victory over Navy, winning 35-0 and securing their place in the American Athletic Conference championship game. Makhi Hughes was a standout performer, rushing for 82 yards and scoring two touchdowns. Quarterback Darian Mensah contributed significantly as well, throwing for two touchdowns and rushing for another in the decisive victory.
The game showcased Tulane’s defensive prowess, as they held Navy to just 113 total yards. This marked Tulane’s second shutout of the season and the fourth time they have limited an opponent to single-digit scoring. Navy’s starting quarterback, Blake Horvath, exited the game due to a rib injury, which significantly impacted the Midshipmen’s performance.
Despite Hughes averaging lower than his season average on the ground, his key plays proved pivotal, including a 14-yard touchdown run that helped extend Tulane’s lead to 14-0. Mensah completed 10 of his 14 passes for 138 yards, showing efficiency in critical moments, particularly in the fourth quarter.
This dominant win not only solidifies Tulane’s position as a strong competitor in their conference but also keeps them in the rankings for another week, bolstering their chances heading into the championship game against Army on December 6.
Looking ahead, Tulane will face Memphis next Saturday, while Navy prepares for an away game against East Carolina on November 29.
In summary, Tulane’s robust performance against Navy sets a positive tone for their upcoming championship battle, showcasing their capabilities on both offense and defense while demonstrating resilience in challenging conditions.