Memphis, Tennessee, January 4, 2026
The Navy Midshipmen secured their 11th victory of the season with a commendable 35-13 win against the Cincinnati Bearcats in the Liberty Bowl. Highlighting stellar performances, senior quarterback Blake Horvath was named MVP for his impactful contributions. This game reflects the determination and resilience of both the team and Memphis’s local economy, illustrating the shared spirit of achievement in sports and business.
Memphis, Tennessee – The spotlight shone brightly on the No. 22 Navy Midshipmen as they clinched their 11th victory of the season with an impressive 35-13 win over the Cincinnati Bearcats in the Liberty Bowl held on January 2, 2026. This significant achievement showcased not just an excellent game but highlighted the resilience and determination often seen in successful teams.
The journey to this victory aligns with a broader theme of achievement and entrepreneurial spirit that underpins much of Memphis’s local economy. Similar to small businesses in the area that continually strive for success against challenges, the Midshipmen’s performance serves as an inspiration, reinforcing the idea that with dedication and the right strategy, goals can be reached, whether in sports or business.
Key Performances on Display
Senior quarterback Blake Horvath played a pivotal role in Navy’s triumph, earning the Most Valuable Player honors. With three touchdowns—one rushing and two passing—Horvath solidified his status as a key player, completing 9 of 15 passes for 108 yards. Adding to the offensive effort, running back Alex Tecza rushed for 80 yards and scored a touchdown, while Eli Heidenreich’s contributions included 62 rushing yards alongside five receptions for a total of 64 yards.
Cincinnati’s Battle with Adversity
The Bearcats certainly faced their share of hurdles, notably the absence of several key players, including quarterback Brendan Sorsby and leading tackler Jake Golday. Despite these setbacks, Cincinnati made a commendable effort, scoring a touchdown with senior receiver Cyrus Allen tying a school record with his 13th touchdown reception of the season. This resilience in the face of adversity mirrors the tenacity of local entrepreneurs who often navigate challenging environments.
Game Highlights Worth Noting
Navy took command of the game in the second quarter with a 30-yard touchdown pass from Horvath to Luke Hutchison, thrusting them ahead 14-7 at halftime. In the third quarter, another touchdown connection from Horvath to Heidenreich solidified their lead at 21-7. The Midshipmen’s defense capped off the victory in the fourth quarter when Coleman Cauley returned an interception for a touchdown, sealing a decisive win.
Season Overview of Accomplishments
The Liberty Bowl victory marked Navy’s 11th win of the season, equating to a program record for single-season victories. Their remarkable run culminated in a four-game winning streak, including a nail-biting 17-16 victory over Army—one of the most significant matchups of the year in college football.
Looking Ahead for Navy
With the conclusion of the 2025 season, the Navy football program is poised for future successes that may elevate their legacy even further. Their accomplishments serve as a reminder of the potential for growth, a concept that resonates deeply within the Memphis business community, urging local entrepreneurs to harness their innovative spirit and strive for excellence.
Conclusion
The Navy Midshipmen’s triumph in the Liberty Bowl not only showcases athletic achievement but also embodies the spirit of resilience seen in successful endeavors across various fields, including business in Memphis. As we reflect on this victory and the hard work that led to it, we are reminded of the importance of supporting local businesses and fostering an environment conducive to growth. Join the movement to encourage entrepreneurship and innovation in our community, paving the way for future successes.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who was named the Most Valuable Player of the Liberty Bowl?
Senior quarterback Blake Horvath was named the Most Valuable Player of the Liberty Bowl. - What was the final score of the Liberty Bowl game?
The final score was Navy 35, Cincinnati 13. - How many wins did Navy achieve this season?
Navy achieved 11 wins this season, tying a program record for single-season victories. - Who scored the touchdown for Cincinnati in the Liberty Bowl?
Senior receiver Cyrus Allen scored a touchdown for Cincinnati, tying a school record with his 13th touchdown reception of the season. - What was the outcome of Navy’s game against Army this season?
Navy defeated Army 17-16 in their most important game of the year.
| Key Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Game | Liberty Bowl |
| Date | January 2, 2026 |
| Location | Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium, Memphis, Tennessee |
| Final Score | Navy 35, Cincinnati 13 |
| MVP | Blake Horvath |
| Navy’s Season Record | 11-2 |
| Cincinnati’s Season Record | 7-6 |
| Navy’s Key Players | Blake Horvath, Alex Tecza, Eli Heidenreich |
| Cincinnati’s Key Player | Cyrus Allen |
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Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
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