Army Football's 2024 Season - A Modern Era Triumph
2024: A Season to Remember
Army has already achieved 11 wins this season and has a golden opportunity to make history by winning 12 games when they face Navy on Saturday. The possibility of reaching 13 wins is also on the table if they can defeat Marshall in the Independence Bowl on December 28. This marks the first time in program history that they have had a chance to win 11 games, and with two more games left, 2024 undoubtedly stands out as one of their best ever seasons.
The team's discipline and efficiency on the field have been key factors in their success. Quarterback Bryson Daily has been a phenomenal force, rushing for 1,480 yards and scoring 29 touchdowns while also passing for 877 yards and eight touchdowns with only one interception. His performance has been a driving force behind Army's offensive success.
2018: A Return to the Ranks
After a long hiatus, Army finished ranked for the first time since 1996. With a 11-2 record and a dominant win over Houston in the Independence Bowl, the Black Knights proved their mettle. They not only defeated Houston but did so in style, winning 70-14. Despite losing two games early in the season to Power Four programs like Duke and Oklahoma, the team showed great resilience.
The Sooners, who went on to the College Football Playoff that season and had the Heisman Trophy winner in quarterback Kyler Murray, posed a tough challenge. However, Army held their own and even forced Oklahoma into overtime in Norman. A victory over Navy, 17-10, was a significant milestone in this season and showcased the team's ability to perform in big games.
1944: The First National Championship
In 1944, Army achieved a remarkable feat by finishing with a perfect 9-0 record. They outscored their opponents 504-35 throughout the season, demonstrating their dominance on the field. The Black Knights' wins over top-ranked Notre Dame and Navy in the season finale solidified their claim as the de facto national champions.
This victory was a significant moment in Army football history and set the stage for future success. The team's performance that year was a testament to their skill and determination.
1945: Back-to-Back National Championships
Army continued their winning streak in 1945, finishing 9-0 again and winning the Associated Press national championship under coach Earl “Red” Blaik. Their victory over No. 2 Navy in the season finale, 32-13, was a decisive moment that effectively sealed their national championship.
Throughout the season, they also defeated other top-ranked teams like No. 2 Notre Dame, No. 6 Penn, No. 9 Michigan, and No. 19 Duke. This string of victories showcased their ability to compete at the highest level and solidified their status as one of the top football programs in the country.
1996: A Historic Season
In 1996, Army had a season to remember. They finished inside the top 25 of both the Coaches and AP Top 25 polls for the first time since 1958. Under coach Bob Sutton, the Black Knights had a 10-2 record and gave a tough fight in the Independence Bowl against Auburn, falling 32-29.
This season was a significant milestone for Army football and showed that the program was on the rise. With the potential to finish the season ranked again in 2024, the future looks bright for the Black Knights.