The United States Naval Academy’s football team achieved a remarkable milestone with a decisive 35-13 victory over Cincinnati in the Liberty Bowl on December 30, 2025. This win marked Navy’s 11th of the season, tying the program record for most victories in a single campaign, a feat previously accomplished in 2015 and 2019. Under the leadership of third-year head coach Brian Newberry, the Midshipmen capped off a historic season with their first back-to-back seasons of ten or more wins.
This game, held in Memphis, Tennessee, was especially significant for several senior players who concluded their collegiate careers on a high note. Quarterback Blake Horvath earned the Most Valuable Player (MVP) title, contributing 108 passing yards, 53 rushing yards, and three total touchdowns. Horvath leaves Annapolis with an impressive record, including two Army-Navy victories and two bowl MVP awards, ranking fourth in passing touchdowns and sixth in rushing touchdowns in the school’s history.
Another standout was senior running back Alex Tecza, who led the team with 80 rushing yards. Tecza’s performance included a pivotal 34-yard run that set up Horvath’s first touchdown and a rushing score in the fourth quarter, marking his 23rd and final collegiate touchdown. The Midshipmen’s ground game, ranked first in the nation, also featured Eli Heidenreich, who recorded 62 rushing yards and 64 receiving yards, concluding his career as the all-time leader in receiving yards for Navy with a total of 1,994 yards.
Navy’s defense played a crucial role in the victory, with Landon Robinson making six tackles. Robinson became the first Navy player to be named an Associated Press First Team All-American since 1975, showcasing his impact on the field. The defensive unit limited Cincinnati to just 239 total yards and 13 points, the lowest output for the Bearcats this season.
Cincinnati faced significant challenges throughout the game, having lost several starters, including quarterback Brendan Sorsby, due to transfer portal movements. In his first start since 2023, quarterback Brady Lichtenberg managed only 78 yards on 10 completions, struggling to find rhythm against Navy’s formidable defense. The Bearcats relied on young running backs Manny Covey and Samaj Jones to provide offensive support, but ultimately fell short, being outgained by Navy on the ground 241 to 142.
After a competitive start, Navy took control of the game with a touchdown connection between Horvath and Luke Hutchison just before halftime, bringing the score to 14-7. Following a strong opening drive in the second half, Navy extended its lead to 21-7. The Midshipmen sealed their victory with a pick-six from inside linebacker Coleman Cauley, who also recorded ten tackles in the game, marking his first career touchdown.
Cincinnati’s season concluded with a disappointing finish, marking their fourth consecutive loss and a second straight season-ending skid. Despite achieving their first winning record as a Big 12 program, the Bearcats will need to regroup for the upcoming offseason after suffering their fourth straight bowl defeat.
Navy’s victory not only highlights a season of triumph but also commemorates the contributions of a talented senior class. As the Midshipmen finish the season with an impressive 11-2 record and a conference mark of 7-1, they await their final ranking in the Associated Press Poll, their first since 2019. The 2025 Navy football team will be remembered for its historic achievements and the legacy of its departing stars.
