Duke Cannon's Favorite Things About the Army-Navy Football Game
On December 10, 2022, at 3:00 p.m. ET, the 123rd edition of the annual Army-Navy Game presented by USAA will be broadcast nationally on CBS, and you should make sure you’re seated front and center to watch. Reason #1 is because it’s the most enduring rivalry in college football, and Reason #2? Well (and believe us when we say that we are thrilled to type these words), Duke Cannon is a Participating Partner of America’s Game. So with 50 days until kickoff, we thought we’d talk about some of the reasons why this game, and its history, means so much to us.
IT INTRODUCED THE WORLD TO INSTANT REPLAY
It’s difficult to believe, but there was a time when people watching televised football games had to accuse referees of being legally blind, without the benefit of proof. But that all changed during the Army-Navy football game on December 7, 1963, when the magic of instant reply was introduced to the nation, giving viewers another look at what happened during any given play. It not only made dad’s everywhere feel more justified in yelling at the television, but changed the sport itself.
IT'S FREQUENTLY ATTENDED BY SITTING PRESIDENTS
Regardless of where you stand politically (and we will not be getting into a political discussion; as far as Duke Cannon is concerned, we are all in this together), it’s undeniable that multiple Presidents attending Army-Navy games over the years is significant, with their presence giving the on-field proceedings an air of considerable import. Hail to the Chief, indeed.
IT'S FOOTBALL
This seems obvious, but—it’s a football game, broadcast on a Saturday afternoon in December, and there’s no good reason not to tune into such a thing.
THE FIRST FOOTBALL HELMET WAS USED IN AN ARMY-NAVY GAME
Back in the 1893 edition of this enduring contest, Navy Midshipman (and later Admiral) Joseph Mason Reeves wore what is widely regarded as the first football helmet on the field. A shoemaker from Annapolis made it for him on doctor’s orders, and it was little more than a leather hat, but it did make people realize that in a sport involving bodily collisions, focusing more on head protection was probably a good idea.
IT'S MORE THAN JUST A FOOTBALL GAME
In the event of a crisis, it’s understood that the Armed Forces of the United States will all march lockstep in the same direction for the greater good of our nation. But when the whistle blows and the ball is kicked off, all bets are off. Sportsmanship and fair play are adhered to, but there is nothing that personifies the spirited interservice rivalry of the United States Armed Forces like this game. It’s tradition in its purist form, and if you don’t feel something stir within you as you watch it, you should have a loved one check your pulse.
WE'RE GOING TO BE THERE
That’s right: We will be on-site at America’s Game this year, and where else would you find us but holding court at the Duke Cannon Lodge? As part of the Fan Fest experience located inside the stadium gates, the Duke Cannon Lodge will offer attendees the chance to participate in various activities (aka feats of strength), meet other residents of Duke Cannon country, soak up some camaraderie and goodwill, and of course, hoist a few cold ones if that’s your thing. So start making travel plans, because we can’t wait to meet you and extend an impressively firm handshake.
