The United States Naval Academy football team achieved a significant milestone by defeating Cincinnati 35-13 in the Liberty Bowl on March 15, 2025. This victory not only marked the Midshipmen’s 11th win of the season but also tied the program record for most victories in a single year, a feat previously accomplished by teams in 2015 and 2019. Under the guidance of third-year head coach Brian Newberry, Navy concluded its historic season with back-to-back seasons boasting over ten wins for the first time in its history.
Navy’s performance in Memphis was highlighted by standout contributions from senior players, with quarterback Blake Horvath earning MVP honors. Horvath completed 108 passing yards and contributed 53 rushing yards along with three total touchdowns. He leaves Annapolis with an impressive record, including two victories in the Army-Navy game and two bowl MVP awards, ranking fourth in passing touchdowns and sixth in rushing touchdowns in the program’s history.
Another senior, Alex Tecza, also made a significant impact, rushing for a game-high 80 yards. Tecza’s performance included a pivotal 34-yard run that set up Navy’s first touchdown and a final rushing score that marked his 23rd and last collegiate touchdown. Alongside Tecza, Eli Heidenreich showcased his versatility with 62 rushing yards and 64 receiving yards, concluding his career as Navy’s all-time leader in receiving yards with 1,994. Heidenreich’s stellar performance extended his single-season record to 941 receiving yards, a fitting way to end his collegiate journey.
The Midshipmen’s defense, led by Landon Robinson, who became Navy’s first AP First Team All-American since 1975, played a crucial role in limiting Cincinnati’s offense to just 239 yards and 13 points. Robinson’s six tackles contributed to a strong defensive showing that stifled the Bearcats, marking the lowest points scored by them this season.
Cincinnati, on the other hand, faced significant challenges leading up to the game. The team, which ended the season with a disappointing four-game losing streak, struggled with injuries and the departure of key starters, including quarterback Brendan Sorsby. In his first start since 2023, Brady Lichtenberg struggled to find rhythm, passing for only 78 yards on 10 completions, with limited success beyond short-range throws. The Bearcats attempted to compensate with a ground game led by younger running backs, but they were ultimately out-gained by Navy’s potent rushing attack.
The game remained competitive for nearly two quarters, with Navy leading 14-7 just before halftime after a 30-yard touchdown pass from Horvath to Luke Hutchison. Navy took control in the second half, extending its lead to 21-7 with a 75-yard drive. The decisive moment came late in the game when Coleman Cauley, an inside linebacker, scored on a pick-six, stretching the lead to 35-13 and marking his first career touchdown. Cauley’s performance included ten tackles, further solidifying Navy’s defensive prowess.
With this victory, Navy concluded the season with a record of 11-2 and a conference record of 7-1 in the American Athletic Conference. The Midshipmen’s success not only culminated in a bowl victory but also provided a fitting tribute to a talented senior class that has left a lasting legacy. As the season wraps up, Navy awaits its placement in the final AP Poll, potentially achieving its first ranking since 2019.
In contrast, Cincinnati finished with a record of 7-6, including a 5-4 performance in the Big 12 Conference. Despite the disappointing end to their season, the Bearcats can celebrate their first winning campaign as a member of the Big 12, but significant adjustments will be necessary to rebuild for the future, especially after facing a fourth consecutive bowl defeat.
