On September 5, 2026, the Navy Midshipmen will welcome the Towson Tigers to Navy‑Marine Corps Memorial Stadium in Annapolis, Maryland, for the first home game of the season, scheduled for a 3:30 p.m. Eastern kickoff and broadcast on CBS Sports Network.
The matchup marks only the second time the two programs have met, the last encounter being a 41‑13 victory for Navy in 2008, a game that showcased a dominant rushing attack that amassed 558 yards.
This year, slot back Shun White shattered the Navy single‑game rushing record, charging for 348 yards on 19 carries and helping the team compile 558 rushing yards in total, the third‑highest single‑game total in school history.
The performance comes under the guidance of Ken Niumatalolo, whose 109‑83 record makes him Navy’s winningest coach, a milestone achieved after his debut season in 2008.
Poll expectations and early season outlook
Entering the season, Navy received ten points in the Associated Press preseason poll and three in the AFCA poll, reflecting modest but growing expectations.
However, the Midshipmen’s schedule presents a stark contrast, as they are slated to play three consecutive road games later in the year, a rarity shared by only five other FBS programs.
Head coach Brian Newberry, now 26‑12 in his tenure, brings a 2‑1 record in season openers and a perfect 3‑0 mark in home openers, underscoring the team’s propensity to start strong at home.
The club’s home dominance is underscored by a nation‑leading streak of 78 consecutive victories when leading after three quarters, a run that includes the sixth undefeated home season in school history.
In addition, the program celebrated the Patriot League Presidents’ Cup, securing six league titles and 154 points, while preparing to commemorate the 100th anniversary of its only national championship during the 2026 campaign.
Towson arrives with a 0‑1 record after a narrow 21‑18 loss to Maine, setting the stage for a test of Navy’s resilience.
Sophomore running back Kemarrion Battles contributed 89 yards on the ground, while quarterback Andrew Indorf threw for 267 yards and two touchdowns, providing depth behind White’s historic effort.
The game will also honor former offensive lineman David Forney, whose jersey number 68 will be displayed in memoriam following his death in 2020.
Beyond the field, the Naval Academy Athletic Association and USAA have extended their partnership for another decade, ensuring continued support for Navy athletics.
With a storied home record, a record‑breaking rushing performance and a demanding road stretch ahead, the 2026 season promises to be a defining chapter for the Navy football program.