2024 Armed Forces Bowl Preview: Oklahoma Sooners vs. Navy Midshipmen
Key Takeaways:
- The 2024 Armed Forces Bowl features the Oklahoma Sooners (6-6) against the Navy Midshipmen (9-3) on December 27, 2024, at Amon G. Carter Stadium in Fort Worth, Texas.
- Oklahoma’s season has been marked by significant roster changes, including the transfer of starting quarterback Jackson Arnold, leading to freshman Michael Hawkins Jr. stepping in as the starter.
- Navy boasts a potent rushing attack, averaging 249.7 yards per game, ranking sixth nationally, led by quarterback Blake Horvath, who has accumulated 1,154 passing yards, 895 rushing yards, and 24 total touchdowns this season.
- Oklahoma’s defense has been effective against the run, allowing only 105.8 rushing yards per game, placing them 11th nationally, which will be crucial in countering Navy’s triple-option offense.
- The game is anticipated to be a strategic battle between Navy’s disciplined, run-heavy offense and Oklahoma’s athletic defense, with the outcome potentially hinging on the performance of Oklahoma’s new starting quarterback and their ability to adapt to Navy’s unique offensive scheme.
2024 Armed Forces Bowl Preview: Oklahoma Sooners vs. Navy Midshipmen
The 2024 Armed Forces Bowl presents an intriguing matchup between the Oklahoma Sooners and the Navy Midshipmen, scheduled for December 27 at Amon G. Carter Stadium in Fort Worth, Texas. This game marks only the second meeting between these historic programs, with Navy winning the previous encounter 10-0 in 1965.
Oklahoma Sooners: Season Overview and Key Players
The Sooners enter the bowl game with a 6-6 record, reflecting a season of highs and lows. A significant development is the departure of starting quarterback Jackson Arnold, who has entered the transfer portal. In his place, freshman Michael Hawkins Jr. is expected to lead the offense. Hawkins has appeared in six games this season, completing 62% of his passes and rushing for 143 yards, showcasing his dual-threat capabilities.
Oklahoma’s offense has averaged 24.3 points per game, with a balanced attack contributing 167.6 passing yards and 154.9 rushing yards per contest. However, the team has faced challenges in pass protection, ranking near the bottom nationally in sacks allowed.
Navy Midshipmen: Season Overview and Key Players
Navy comes into the bowl game with a strong 9-3 record, highlighted by a commanding 31-13 victory over Army in their most recent outing. The Midshipmen’s offense is spearheaded by quarterback Blake Horvath, who has been instrumental both in the air and on the ground. This season, Horvath has accumulated 1,154 passing yards, 895 rushing yards, and accounted for 24 touchdowns, underscoring his versatility.
Navy’s offensive strategy is heavily reliant on its formidable rushing attack, averaging 249.7 yards per game, which ranks sixth nationally. This ground game is complemented by an efficient passing scheme, making the Midshipmen’s offense multifaceted and challenging to defend.
Defensive Matchup
Oklahoma’s defense has been particularly effective against the run, allowing just 105.8 rushing yards per game, placing them 11th nationally. This strength will be tested against Navy’s prolific rushing offense. Conversely, Navy’s defense has been solid, conceding 22.3 points per game, and will aim to contain Oklahoma’s dynamic offensive playmakers.
Strategic Considerations
The game is expected to hinge on several critical factors:
- Quarterback Play: Michael Hawkins Jr.’s performance as Oklahoma’s new starting quarterback will be pivotal. His ability to manage the offense and make plays against a disciplined Navy defense could determine the Sooners’ success.
- Navy’s Rushing Attack vs. Oklahoma’s Run Defense: This matchup features a classic strength-on-strength scenario. Navy’s commitment to the run and Oklahoma’s proficiency in stopping it will be central to the game’s outcome.
- Adaptability to the Triple-Option: Oklahoma’s defense must prepare for Navy’s unique triple-option offense, which requires discipline and assignment-sound football to effectively counter.
Conclusion
The 2024 Armed Forces Bowl offers a compelling contest between Oklahoma’s athleticism and Navy’s disciplined, run-oriented approach. The outcome will likely be influenced by how well the Sooners adapt to personnel changes and their effectiveness in countering the Midshipmen’s distinctive offensive scheme. Fans can anticipate a strategic and hard-fought game reflective of both teams’ storied traditions.
