Navy Football Plays Host to FAU in First Meeting as Conference Opponents: A Historic Clash in the AAC

When the Navy Midshipmen take the field against the Florida Atlantic Owls on October 12, 2024, it won’t just be another college football game—it’ll be the first chapter in a new rivalry. For the first time in program history, Navy and FAU will face off as American Athletic Conference (AAC) opponents, marking a shift in the landscape of college football. This matchup isn’t just about bragging rights; it’s a collision of contrasting styles, military discipline versus Florida speed, and a test of how both programs adapt to their new conference home.

Why does this game matter beyond the scoreboard? For Navy, it’s a chance to prove their triple-option offense can thrive in a conference now packed with high-powered spread attacks. For FAU, under the leadership of head coach Tom Herman, it’s an opportunity to show that their 2023 Conference USA championship was no fluke. And for fans? It’s the birth of what could become one of the AAC’s most intriguing aual showdowns.

In this breakdown, we’ll explore the history behind the matchup, the key storylines to watch, how both teams stack up, and why this game could set the tone for their AAC futures. Whether you’re a die-hard Navy fan, an FAU supporter, or just a college football enthusiast, this is one to circle on your calendar.

The Road to the AAC: How Navy and FAU Got Here

The 2024 season marks a new era for both programs. Navy, a long-time independent, joined the AAC in 2015 as a football-only member, seeking more stability in scheduling and a path to New Year’s Six bowls. FAU, meanwhile, rises from Conference USA after dominating the league in 2023 with a 9-1 record and a conference title. Their arrival in the AAC isn’t just a step up in competition—it’s a statement that they’re ready to compete with the likes of Memphis, UTSA, and SMU.

Navy’s AAC Journey: Stability Meets Challenge

2015–2023: Navy enjoyed success in the AAC, including a 2015 division title and multiple bowl appearances. Their triple-option offense, led by legendary coach Keiumatalolo (now at UMass), became a nightmare for opponents.
2024 Transition: Under new head coach Briaewberry, Navy looks to rebuild after a 5-7 2023 campaign. The AAC’s shift (losing Cinciati, Houston, and UCF to the Big 12) means Navy now faces familiar foes like Army (non-conference) and new rivals like FAU.
Why FAU? This game is a litmus test. Caavy’s ground-and-pound approach overpower FAU’s aggressive defense?

FAU’s Rise: From Lane Kiffin to Tom Herman

2017–2023: Under Lane Kiffin, FAU became a G5 powerhouse, wiing two C-USA titles. Their 2023 championship (12-2 record) proved they could dominate even after Kiffin’s departure to Ole Miss.
Tom Herman’s Impact: The former Texas and Houston coach brings a high-octane offense and NFL-level recruiting ties. In 2024, FAU’s roster includes transfers from Alabama, Miami, and Oregon—a sign they’re building for Power 4 competition.
AAC Ambitions: FAU isn’t just happy to be here. With a schedule that includes Memphis, UTSA, and now Navy, they’re aiming for a conference title in Year 1.

Key Storylines: What to Watch Wheavy Hosts FAU

1. The Battle of Schemes: Triple-Option vs. Spread Offense

This game is a philosophical clash. Navy’s offense relies on misdirection, precision, and physicality—averaging 250+ rushing yards per game in 2023. FAU, meanwhile, wants to stretch the field with quarterback Daniel Richardson (a dual-threat transfer from Central Michigan) and a receiving corps that includes former Alabama wideout Aaron Anderson.

X-Factor: Can FAU’s defensive line, led by Evan Anderson (6’4”, 290 lbs), disrupt Navy’s timing? Or will the Midshipmen’s offensive line—returning four starters—wear down the Owls with 15-play drives?

2. Navy’s Defense: Bending but Not Breaking

Navy’s 2023 defense allowed 28.5 points per game but improved late in the season. Their 3-4 scheme is designed to stop the run, but FAU’s air raid attack could expose weaknesses in the secondary. Watch for:

Safety Rayuan Lane III: A ballhawk who led the team in interceptions (3) last year.
Linebacker Colin Ramos: The team’s leading tackler (98 tackles in 2023) must spy Richardson on passing downs.

3. FAU’s Big-Game Experience

FAU isn’t intimidated by road games. In 2023, they won at North Texas (41–7) and Western Kentucky (38–28) in hostile environments. Navy’s home field, Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium, is one of the toughest venues in college football—especially with the Brigade of Midshipmen in full voice. Can FAU’s offense silence the crowd early?

4. Coaching Chess Match: Newberry vs. Herman

Briaewberry is in his second year at Navy, while Tom Herman is in his first at FAU. Both coaches have something to prove:

Newberry: Needs to show Navy’s program isn’t slipping after Niumatalolo’s exit.
Herman: Must prove he can win big games (his record at Texas was criticized for underperforming against ranked teams).

Players to Watch: The Stars Who Could Decide the Game

Navy Midshipmen

QB Blake Horvath: The sophomore took over midseason in 2023 and rushed for 500+ yards. His decision-making in the option will be key.
FB Isaac Ruoss: A bruising 240-pound fullback who punishes defenders in short-yardage situations.
CB Jeremy Jones: A lockdown corner who’ll likely shadow FAU’s top receiver.

FAU Owls

QB Daniel Richardson: Threw for 2,500+ yards at Central Michigan in 2022. His mobility could scramble Navy’s pass rush.
WR Aaron Anderson: A former 4-star Alabama recruit with 4.4 speed—a mismatch for Navy’s safeties.
DE Evan Anderson: The anchor of FAU’s defensive line, he’ll need to shed blocks to stop Navy’s dive plays.

How to Watch: Game Details and Predictions

Game Info

Date: Saturday, October 12, 2024
Time: 3:30 PM ET (subject to TV confirmation)
Location: Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium, Aapolis, MD
TV/Streaming: Likely ESPN+ or CBS Sports Network (AAC’s primary broadcasters)
Betting Line (Early): FAU favored by 3.5 points (as of July 2024)

Expert Predictions

Most analysts see this as a toss-up, but here’s how it could play out:

If Navy Wins: They’ll control the clock (35+ minutes of possession), force 2+ turnovers, and win the time-of-possession battle. Final: Navy 24, FAU 20.
If FAU Wins: Richardson throws for 250+ yards, Anderson burns Navy’s secondary for a 50+ yard TD, and the Owls’ D-line stuffs Horvath on 3rd-and-short. Final: FAU 31, Navy 21.

Why This Game Matters Beyond 2024

1. AAC Title Implications

The wier of this game could emerge as a dark horse in the AAC race. With Memphis and UTSA expected to contend, a victory here would give either team momentum heading into November.

2. Recruiting Battleground

Navy and FAU recruit very different players—Navy targets high-character, academically driven athletes, while FAU goes after Florida speed and Power 5 transfers. A win for Navy could help them sell the AAC as a competitive home; a win for FAU reinforces their pitch to elite talent.

3. Future Rivalry Potential

With both teams now in the AAC, this could become an aual grudge match. Imagine the storylines:

Service Academy vs. Florida Speed: A clash of cultures on the field.
Coaching Carousel: If Herman succeeds, FAU could become a coaching stepping stone (like UCF was for Gus Malzahn).
Bowl Implications: The AAC’s tie-ins with the Military Bowl (Navy’s backyard) and Boca Raton Bowl (FAU’s home) add extra spice.

How to Get Ready for the Game: A Fan’s Guide

For Navy Fans

Tailgating: Arrive early—Hospital Point is the best spot for pregame festivities.
Traditions: Don’t miss the March-On of the Brigade (3,000+ midshipmen marching into the stadium).
What to Wear: Navy blue and gold—no red (FAU’s primary color).

For FAU Fans

Travel Tips: Aapolis is a 3-hour drive from D.C. Book hotels early—game weekends sell out.
Chants to Know: “Owl Gang!” is FAU’s rallying cry. Expect Navy fans to counter with “Go Navy! Beat FAU!”
Postgame: If FAU wins, celebrate at Dry 85 (a local Navy hangout—tread carefully).

For Neutral Fans

This is a perfect “second-screen” game. While Alabama vs. Texas might dominate the headlines, Navy-FAU offers:

Unique Offenses: You won’t see many triple-option vs. spread matchups in 2024.
Coaching Intrigue: Herman’s redemption arc vs. Newberry’s rebuild.
Atmosphere: Few venues match the pageantry of Navy home games.

Conclusion: A Game That Could Define the AAC’s Future

Wheavy and FAU kick off on October 12, it won’t just be about who wins or loses—it’ll be about what kind of conference the AAC becomes. Will it be a league where traditional, physical football (like Navy’s) can still thrive? Or will it tilt toward the fast-paced, transfer-portal-driven approach FAU embodies?

For Navy, this game is a chance to reclaim their identity after a down 2023. For FAU, it’s an opportunity to aounce their arrival as a legitimate AAC contender. And for fans, it’s the start of what could be one of the most unpredictable, entertaining rivalries in Group of 5 football.

So mark your calendars, set your DVRs, and get ready for a clash of styles, schemes, and stories. Because wheavy hosts FAU, you’re not just watching a game—you’re watching the future of the AAC unfold.

🏈 Ready for Kickoff?

Who do you think wins this matchup? Will Navy’s ground game wear down FAU, or will the Owls’ offense prove too explosive? Drop your predictions in the comments, and don’t forget to follow our AAC coverage for more previews, analysis, and updates as the season approaches.

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Tags: Article, Blog, insight

Kebun Firdaus