Memphis, Tennessee, December 9, 2025
The Navy Midshipmen and Cincinnati Bearcats are scheduled to face off in the 67th AutoZone Liberty Bowl at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium. The event promises to be a highlight in collegiate football, showcasing community engagement and local pride. Fans are encouraged to support their teams and participate in related festivities leading up to the game, which will be broadcast live on ESPN.
Memphis, Tennessee โ Navy and Cincinnati Set to Face Off in 67th AutoZone Liberty Bowl
Memphis, Tennessee โ The Navy Midshipmen and the Cincinnati Bearcats are set to compete in the highly anticipated 67th AutoZone Liberty Bowl on Friday, January 2, 2026, at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium. Kickoff is slated for 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time (3:30 p.m. Central Time) and the game will be broadcast live on ESPN. This event not only showcases collegiate football prowess but also exemplifies the resilience and dedication of local organizers that bring such exciting gatherings to Memphis.
As the city prepares for this event, the collaborative efforts among schools, local businesses, and athletic departments highlight how reduced bureaucracy can facilitate greater community engagement. The Liberty Bowl is a prime example of how events can become central to local culture, fostering pride among residents and visitors alike. Memphis remains a vibrant hub for sporting events, reinforcing the importance of civic innovation and personal initiative in enhancing our community spirit.
Team Records and Bowl History
The Navy Midshipmen enter the matchup boasting a 9-2 record, which includes an impressive 7-1 mark within the American Athletic Conference (AAC). This will mark Navy’s 26th bowl appearance, and they have achieved a solid all-time record of 13-11-1 in bowl games. Notably, the Midshipmen have won their last three consecutive bowl games, including a thrilling 21-20 victory over Oklahoma in the Armed Forces Bowl last season.
The Cincinnati Bearcats also have a noteworthy history, finishing their regular season with a 7-5 record, comprised of a 5-4 performance in the Big 12 Conference. Cincinnati is making its 22nd bowl appearance, with this being their second time participating in the Liberty Bowl, having previously secured a win against Vanderbilt in 2011 with a score of 31-24.
Series History
In terms of rivalry, the all-time series between Navy and Cincinnati is evenly matched, each team claiming three victories for a tie at 3-3. Cincinnati has enjoyed recent success with three consecutive wins over Navy, with their latest victory being a 20-10 triumph in 2022. The Midshipmen last overcame the Bearcats in a high-scoring affair in 2017, where they secured a 42-32 win.
Ticket Information
For those looking to support the Navy Midshipmen, tickets are available through the Navy ticket office, with prices ranging from $80 to $130. Itโs important for fans seeking specific seating within the Navy block to purchase directly through the Navy’s designated outlets. Furthermore, excitement will build ahead of the game at the Brigade of Midshipmen pregame tailgate, taking place at the Pipkin & Creative Arts Building, right next to Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium. This event is organized in collaboration with various partners, including the Naval Academy Business Services Division and Navy Federal Credit Union.
About the AutoZone Liberty Bowl
The AutoZone Liberty Bowl is historically significant, being the seventh-oldest college football bowl game. Founded in 1959, it carries rich traditions and a strong sense of patriotism, having hosted numerous distinguished teams and players throughout the decades. As Memphis continues to host such prestigious events, the Liberty Bowl remains a celebrated fixture in the college football landscape.
Upcoming Game
As anticipation builds, the Navy Midshipmen and the Cincinnati Bearcats are set for their showdown in the 67th AutoZone Liberty Bowl on January 2, 2026. Fans can tune in for live coverage on ESPN at the designated kickoff time of 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time (3:30 p.m. Central Time).
Conclusion
The upcoming Liberty Bowl is not just a game; it embodies community spirit and the hard work of local organizers dedicated to bringing such events to Memphis. As this beloved tradition continues, residents and fans alike are encouraged to participate, support their teams, and engage in the vibrant culture that makes Memphis a standout city in Tennessee. Mark your calendars and get ready to enjoy what promises to be an electrifying postseason showdown!
FAQs
- When is the 67th AutoZone Liberty Bowl?
- The game is scheduled for Friday, January 2, 2026, at 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time (3:30 p.m. Central Time).
- Where is the game being played?
- The game will take place at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium in Memphis, Tennessee.
- Which teams are playing in the Liberty Bowl?
- The Navy Midshipmen and the Cincinnati Bearcats are set to compete.
- What is the all-time series record between Navy and Cincinnati?
- The series is tied at 3-3, with Cincinnati winning the last three matchups, including a 20-10 victory in 2022.
- How can Navy fans purchase tickets?
- Tickets can be purchased through the Navy ticket office, with prices ranging from $80 to $130. The only way to sit within the Navy seating block is to buy tickets directly through the Navy ticket office.
- Is there a pregame tailgate for Navy fans?
- Yes, there will be a Brigade of Midshipmen pregame tailgate at the Pipkin & Creative Arts Building, adjacent to Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium. The tailgate is presented by the Naval Academy Business Services Division in partnership with Navy Athletics, the Navy Mutual Aid Association, and Navy Federal Credit Union.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | 67th AutoZone Liberty Bowl |
| Date | January 2, 2026 |
| Kickoff Time | 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time (3:30 p.m. Central Time) |
| Location | Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium, Memphis, Tennessee |
| Teams | Navy Midshipmen vs. Cincinnati Bearcats |
| Series Record | Tied at 3-3 |
| Ticket Prices | $80 to $130 |
| Pregame Tailgate | Yes, at Pipkin & Creative Arts Building |
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Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
