Navy Football Clinches AAC Title Share with Stunning Second-Half Shutout of Memphis

The Navy Midshipmen are American Athletic Conference co-champions. They defeated the Memphis Tigers 28-17 on Thanksgiving night. The victory came after a dominant second-half defensive performance.

Navy improves to 9-2 overall and 7-1 in conference play. The win guarantees at least a share of the AAC regular-season title. According to ESPN, the Midshipmen now await other weekend results to see if they advance to the championship game.

Navy’s Defensive Unit Stifles Memphis After Halftime

Navy’s defense was nearly perfect in the second half. They held Memphis to just 58 total yards after the break. The Midshipmen also recorded five sacks in the game.

The defensive line generated constant pressure on Memphis quarterback Brendon Lewis. This relentless effort resulted in a complete second-half shutout. It was the first time Memphis was held under 20 points in 52 games.

This defensive turnaround was crucial. Navy had trailed 17-14 at halftime. The adjustment showcased the team’s resilience and coaching.

Ground Game and Clock Control Seal the Victory

Running back Alex Tecza led the offensive charge. He rushed for 103 yards and two critical touchdowns. His physical running style wore down the Memphis defense as the game progressed.

Quarterback Blake Horvath managed the game effectively. He accounted for two touchdowns while contributing both through the air and on the ground. The balanced attack kept the Tigers’ defense guessing all night.

Navy dominated time of possession, especially after halftime. They controlled the ball for over 23 minutes in the second half. This strategy limited Memphis’s offensive opportunities and secured the win.

What’s Next for Navy’s Championship Hopes

Navy now must wait for other conference games to finish. Their fate for a spot in the AAC championship game depends on the outcomes. They need either North Texas or Tulane to lose their final regular-season contests.

If both teams lose, Navy would host the conference championship game. This scenario remains possible, keeping hopes alive in Annapolis. The team has positioned itself for a remarkable achievement in its first year under this structure.

Navy football has proven its mettle, finishing the regular season as a champion and waiting for one final piece to fall into place.

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What does Navy need to make the AAC championship game?

Navy needs either North Texas or Tulane to lose their final regular-season games. If both teams lose, Navy would host the championship. The Midshipmen have done all they can by winning their own game.

How did Navy’s defense perform against Memphis?

The defense was spectacular, especially after halftime. They held Memphis to just 58 yards and zero points in the second half. The unit also recorded five sacks throughout the game.

Who were the standout players for Navy?

Alex Tecza rushed for 103 yards and two touchdowns. Blake Horvath accounted for two touchdowns with 100 passing and 54 rushing yards. The defensive line was a collective standout with five sacks.

What is the significance of this victory for Navy?

The win guarantees Navy at least a share of the AAC regular-season title. It marks a successful 9-2 regular season for the program. The victory also keeps their conference championship game hopes alive.

Where was the game played?

The game was played at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium in Memphis. An attendance of 27,082 was announced for the Thanksgiving night matchup. Navy managed to secure a crucial road victory.