As college football season enters its midpoint, the American Athletic Conference (AAC) delivers a can’t-miss matchup between the Navy Midshipmen and Memphis Tigers. The Navy vs Memphis game is set to ignite fans on October 21st, with both teams fighting for position in the conference standings and bragging rights. For Navy football supporters, this game is a chance to witness their iconic triple-option offense in action—spearheaded by standout fullback Blake Horvath—while Memphis fans are eager to see their Tigers’ high-flying passing attack take flight. Whether you’re planning to catch the game live at the stadium or stream it from home, we’ve got all the details on where to watch Navy Midshipmen football vs Memphis Tigers football, plus a deep dive into key storylines and our Navy vs Memphis prediction to get you ready for kickoff.
Navy Football: Triple Option Dominance and Blake Horvath’s Impact
Navy football has built its identity around the triple-option offense, a scheme that confounds defenses with its precision and reliance on ball control. This season, the Midshipmen have leaned into this strength, ranking among the top 10 in the nation in rushing yards per game. At the heart of this run game is Blake Horvath, a 6-foot-1, 235-pound senior fullback whose physicality and vision have made him a nightmare for opposing defenses.
Horvath has been a workhorse for Navy, amassing over 550 rushing yards and six touchdowns through six games. In their recent win against SMU, he rushed for 125 yards and two scores, breaking through tackles and extending drives with critical third-down conversions. His ability to read gaps and adjust his route mid-run has been a key asset for the Midshipmen, and Memphis’s defense will need to focus heavily on containing him to slow down Navy’s offense.
Beyond Horvath, Navy’s triple option relies on the quarterback’s decision-making and the offensive line’s ability to create lanes. The Midshipmen’s O-line has been solid this season, opening up space for Horvath and the team’s slotbacks to gain yards. On defense, Navy’s linebackers have been disruptive, leading the team in tackles and sacks, but their secondary has struggled against pass-heavy offenses—a weakness Memphis is likely to exploit.
Memphis Tigers: Passing Attack and Defensive Resilience
Memphis’s football team has carved out its own identity with a dynamic passing offense that keeps defenses on their toes. Led by quarterback Seth Henigan, the Tigers have averaged over 280 passing yards per game this season, with Henigan throwing for 1,800 yards and 15 touchdowns. His favorite targets include wide receivers Roc Taylor and Joseph Scates, both of whom have the speed and hands to stretch the field and make big plays.
On the defensive side, Memphis has been improving steadily, especially against the run. The Tigers’ defensive line has been generating consistent pressure, and their linebackers have been effective at filling gaps. However, Navy’s triple option is a unique challenge—Memphis’s defense will need to avoid overcommitting to one runner and maintain discipline to prevent big gains. If the Tigers can slow down Horvath and the Midshipmen’s run game, they’ll have a chance to control the tempo and let their passing attack shine.
Key Matchup Factors to Watch
Navy’s Triple Option vs Memphis’s Run Defense: The biggest question mark for Memphis is whether their defense can contain Navy’s run-heavy scheme. Horvath’s physical running style will test the Tigers’ interior defense, and if Navy can establish the run early, they’ll control the clock and limit Memphis’s offensive opportunities.
Memphis’s Passing Attack vs Navy’s Secondary: Navy’s secondary has struggled with deep passes this season, and Memphis’s Henigan will look to exploit this weakness. If the Tigers can get their receivers open downfield, they’ll put points on the board quickly and force Navy to abandon its ball-control strategy.
Turnovers: Both teams have struggled with turnovers this season—Navy has lost six fumbles, while Memphis has thrown seven interceptions. Whoever protects the ball better will have a significant advantage in this close matchup.
Where to Watch Navy Midshipmen Football vs Memphis Tigers Football
If you’re looking to catch the Navy vs Memphis game, here are all the details you need:
- Kickoff Time: Saturday, October 21st at 3:30 PM ET
- TV Channel: ESPN2
- Streaming Options:
- ESPN+ (subscribers can stream live)
- Hulu + Live TV (includes ESPN2 in its package)
- Sling TV (Orange package offers access to ESPN2)
- YouTube TV (carries ESPN2 and other college football channels)
- Radio: Navy Sports Network (for Midshipmen fans) and Memphis Tigers Radio Network (for Tigers supporters)
International fans can tune in via ESPN Player, which streams select college football games globally.
Navy vs Memphis Prediction
This game is shaping up to be a tight contest, with both teams bringing distinct strengths to the field. Our Navy vs Memphis prediction leans toward the Midshipmen, but it’s a nail-biter. Blake Horvath’s ability to move the chains on the ground will be instrumental—if he can gain consistent yards, Navy will control the clock and limit Memphis’s offensive chances. Memphis’s passing attack will put points on the board, but the Midshipmen’s defense should make enough stops to keep the game close.
Final Score: Navy 27, Memphis 24
No matter the outcome, the Navy vs Memphis game promises to be an exciting display of college football talent. Don’t miss your chance to watch Blake Horvath and the Midshipmen take on the Tigers—tune in on October 21st!