The 2024 Armed Forces Bowl is set to showcase a thrilling matchup between the Oklahoma Sooners and the Navy Midshipmen, taking place on December 27, 2024, at Amon G. Carter Stadium in Fort Worth, Texas. Sponsored by Lockheed Martin, this game promises viewers not just intense competition but also highlights the contributions of the armed forces.
Oklahoma, coming off a disappointing season with a 6-6 record, barely managed to secure bowl eligibility. Their season had its bright moments, including a significant victory over Alabama, where they triumphed 24-3, denying the Crimson Tide entry to the College Football Playoff. That win might not erase the overall disappointment of their season, but it certainly adds some pride to their campaign.
Navy, on the other hand, began the season explosively, winning their first six matches. Unfortunately, their momentum took a turn after suffering a crushing 51-14 defeat against Notre Dame. Despite this setback, the Midshipmen salvaged their year by securing a win against their rival, Army, and now aim to solidify their season with victory over Oklahoma.
This matchup also marks the first time these historical rivals have faced each other since 1965, when Navy bested Oklahoma 10-0. Approaching the game, the Sooners hold a historical grudge, as they've yet to secure victory against Navy, having lost the only encounter. This adds extra motivation for Oklahoma, who is eager to take down the Midshipmen and register their first win against any service academy, considering they hold a 5-1 record against Army and Air Force.
Navy has made this appearance its third at the Armed Forces Bowl, tying them for fourth-most appearances alongside Tulsa. The Air Force leads with seven appearances, followed by Army's four and Houston's five. This rich history within the bowl makes the event even more noteworthy, considering the showcasing of the service academies.
With the game just around the corner, excitement is building. Both teams are hoping for a strong performance, but the Oklahoma Sooners face additional challenges. The transfer portal has seen significant movement, with quarterback Jackson Arnold being the most prominent name leaving the program alongside many others. The situation has turned bowl expectations upside down, leading many to regard bowl games as unpredictable.
The Armed Forces Bowl is not just another college football game; it’s also about honoring the military and contributing to causes related to the armed forces. With Lockheed Martin's involvement as the sponsor, there’s added significance to this clash of strength and tradition on the field.
The matchup kicks off at 12 PM ET on December 27, 2024, live on ESPN and available for streaming on Fubo. Fans can expect competitive action as both teams take the field, with Oklahoma seeking to rewrite their recent history against Navy, all embroiled within the larger narrative of tradition surrounding the Armed Forces Bowl.
For fans across the nation, this clash offers more than just football; it's part of the fabric of college traditions and respect for those who serve. Who will emerge victorious? Only time will tell as fans eagerly anticipate the day of the game, excited for another chapter to be written.
