Blake Horvath Injury Update: Will Navy’s Star QB Return After Upper-Body Setback vs Notre Dame?

Navy quarterback Blake Horvath has officially been ruled out for the Midshipmen’s game against No. 10 Notre Dame on Saturday, November 8, 2025, according to multiple reports. The talented dual-threat signal-caller sustained an upper-body injury during last week’s matchup against North Texas and was initially considered a game-time decision.

ESPN’s Pete Thamel reported that Horvath’s injury is not expected to be long-term, offering optimism that the sophomore quarterback could return for Navy’s following game against South Florida. Still, his absence delivers a significant blow to Navy’s offensive game plan against a nationally ranked opponent.

Blake Horvath’s Injury Details and Recovery Timeline

Horvath’s upper-body injury occurred in the November 1 contest against North Texas. Despite the setback, he remained active during portions of the game, completing 8 of 14 passes for 80 yards with two interceptions and adding 112 rushing yards and one touchdown on 19 carries. However, postgame evaluations revealed the extent of the injury, prompting Navy’s coaching staff to rest him for the upcoming clash with Notre Dame.

According to Thamel, the team’s medical staff expects a short-term recovery period, leaving open the possibility that Horvath could return to full strength as early as next week. In his absence, Braxton Woodson will take over starting duties under center. Woodson, known for his composure and mobility, will look to maintain Navy’s rhythm in its triple-option scheme.

Horvath’s season so far has been one of the most productive for a Navy quarterback in recent memory. Through nine games, he has rushed for 926 yards and 13 touchdowns while throwing for 1,143 yards with seven touchdowns and five interceptions. His ability to extend plays and command the run-heavy offense has been vital to Navy’s success this season.

How Horvath’s Absence Impacts Navy vs. Notre Dame

Navy’s matchup against Notre Dame was already a tall task, and losing Horvath makes the challenge even tougher. The Midshipmen rely heavily on quarterback-led runs, and Horvath’s physicality and quick reads are integral to that system. Without him, the offensive balance could shift, forcing the team to adjust its play-calling approach.

Notre Dame’s defense, known for its discipline and speed, will likely aim to capitalize on Navy’s quarterback change. Still, head coach Brian Newberry expressed confidence in Woodson’s readiness, emphasizing that the next-man-up mentality is a core value of the program. “Braxton’s been preparing for this moment all season,” Newberry said earlier this week. “He knows the system, and the team trusts him.”

As the Midshipmen enter the final stretch of their season, Horvath’s recovery will remain one of the most closely watched storylines in Annapolis. If his progress continues as expected, he could return in time to help Navy finish strong and potentially secure a postseason berth.

Blake Horvath’s injury update will be closely monitored in the coming days as Navy hopes to get its leader back under center soon. His resilience and impact on the offense have been clear all season, and fans are eager to see him return to action.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is the latest Blake Horvath injury update?

Blake Horvath will miss the game against Notre Dame due to an upper-body injury but could return next week against South Florida.

Q2: Who is replacing Blake Horvath for Navy vs. Notre Dame?

Braxton Woodson will start at quarterback for Navy in Horvath’s absence.

Q3: What are Blake Horvath’s 2025 season stats?

Horvath has rushed for 926 yards and 13 touchdowns and passed for 1,143 yards with seven touchdowns and five interceptions.

Q4: How serious is Blake Horvath’s injury?

The injury is not considered long-term, according to ESPN’s Pete Thamel, and Horvath could return within a week.

Q5: When is Navy’s next game after Notre Dame?

Navy will face South Florida next week, where Horvath’s potential return is being closely evaluated.