Navy Defeats Cincinnati 42-32; Performance Report Card
Navy rushed fo
r 569 yards and QB Zach Abey had two rushing touchdowns and had a TD pass as the Midshipmen (3-0; 2-0 AAC) defeated Cincinnati 42-32 in their first meeting since 1956.
Back on Wednesday, I said there were three keys to ensure a Navy victory. Here is my report card on how they did.
Key #1 was to put pressure on Cincinnat QB Hayden Moore. Overall Grade: C+
Moore was, at times, able to pick apart the Navy defense. He finished 28 for 46, 381 yards and three TDs. But the Midshipmen did sack him twice and forced an important fumble late in the fourth quarter to ensure the victory.
Key #2 was to have a good running offense and time of possession. Overall Grade: A
Navy rushed for 569 yards (almost setting a team record in the process) and five touchdowns. Navy had a total of 10 offensive possessions. Six TDs, one missed FG, one drive ended on a fumble, one punt and the final possession to run out the clock. Overall, Navy had the ball for 36:51 of game time.
Key #3 was to have a strong rushing defense. Overall Grade: A-
The Midshipmen running defense was very stingy, only allowing Cincinnati 58 rushing yards and one touchdown. Cincinnati was playing most of the game from behind, so the Bearcats did almost abandon their running game in the second half.
I also said that Abey had to throw a few times to keep the Bearcats defense honest. He did complete two of three passes for 53 yards and as mentioned above, one touchdown.
Navy plays next Saturday, September 30th at Tulsa (1-3; 0-0). Kick-off is scheduled for 3:30 pm.
