No. 1 Navy Men’s Rugby Demolishes No. 9 Penn State 64-0, Completes Perfect 9-0 Fall Season
By Brian Hradsky
Final Score: No. 1 Navy 64, No. 9 Penn State 0 | October 31, 2026 | Prusmack Rugby Center, Annapolis, Maryland
The top-ranked Navy Midshipmen men’s rugby team delivered a spectacular conclusion to its 2026 fall season Saturday afternoon, overwhelming ninth-ranked Penn State 64-0 at the Prusmack Rugby Center in Annapolis. Navy scored 10 tries, dominated possession and field position, and prevented the Nittany Lions from scoring a single point. The victory completed a perfect 9-0 fall campaign for the Midshipmen, including an undefeated 6-0 record in Rugby East competition. Penn State dropped to 5-3 overall and 3-3 in conference play.
Navy established control almost immediately, scoring seven first-half tries to build a commanding 45-0 halftime advantage. Andrew Baublitz, Liam Gray and Jack Skidmore each crossed the try line twice, combining for six of Navy’s 10 touchdowns in rugby terminology. Kade Williams contributed 10 points on five successful conversion kicks, while Avion Ganse added two more conversions after halftime. The Midshipmen reached the 60-point mark for the fourth time this season and recorded their third shutout of the fall.
The performance reinforced Navy’s standing as one of the nation’s premier collegiate rugby programs. Facing a nationally ranked opponent, the Midshipmen demonstrated the combination of speed, physicality, discipline and offensive creativity that has defined their undefeated season. Their defensive performance proved equally impressive, preventing Penn State from finding the try zone despite several attempts to generate momentum. Navy entered its fall finale ranked first nationally and finished the campaign with another emphatic statement.
Navy Opens the Floodgates With Relentless First-Half Attack
The Midshipmen wasted little time establishing their offensive superiority, scoring their first try just over five minutes into the contest. Aidan Gerber blocked a Penn State clearance kick deep in the Nittany Lions’ territory, creating an immediate scoring opportunity. Baublitz reacted quickly, collecting the loose ball and crossing the try line to give Navy a 5-0 lead. The sequence demonstrated Navy’s aggressive defensive pressure and ability to transform an opponent’s mistake into points.
Navy extended its advantage in the 11th minute when Nonso Unini scored his first try of the season. Brennon Braud helped create the opportunity with a powerful attacking run that disrupted Penn State’s defensive structure. Unini finished the possession with a try, and Williams converted to increase the lead to 12-0. The Midshipmen had already established an offensive rhythm that Penn State struggled to contain.
Skidmore added Navy’s third try in the 19th minute following an effective attacking sequence from a midfield scrum. Quick passing created space along the sideline, allowing the senior wing to accelerate past the defense and finish the play without being touched. The score extended Navy’s advantage to 17-0 and demonstrated the team’s ability to capitalize on open-field opportunities. Penn State continued searching for answers against an offense that attacked successfully through multiple positions.
Liam Gray Takes Over With Two Explosive Tries
Sophomore fly half Liam Gray emerged as one of Navy’s most dangerous offensive weapons during the middle stages of the first half. Gray scored consecutive tries in the 21st and 25th minutes, displaying impressive acceleration and open-field running ability. His first score featured a sharp move around a defender before he broke free from the pursuing Penn State defense. Williams converted both tries, pushing Navy’s advantage to 31-0.
Gray’s performance illustrated the depth of talent throughout Navy’s lineup. Although the Midshipmen have numerous experienced offensive contributors, younger players have consistently made important contributions throughout the season. Gray’s ability to recognize defensive openings and finish scoring opportunities gave Penn State another problem to solve. His two tries accounted for 10 points during Navy’s dominant first-half performance.
The sophomore’s production also reflected the effectiveness of Navy’s overall attacking structure. Strong forward play helped create opportunities for the backs, while precise passing and intelligent support running allowed Navy to exploit gaps in Penn State’s defense. Rather than depending on one individual, the Midshipmen repeatedly generated scoring opportunities through coordinated team movement. Gray capitalized on that support with two of the game’s most impressive finishes.
Skidmore and Ballinger Push Halftime Lead to 45-0
Navy continued attacking relentlessly as the first half progressed. Skidmore scored his second try in the 30th minute after collecting a well-placed short kick from Williams. The senior wing split two Penn State defenders before reaching the try zone, extending Navy’s advantage to 36-0. Williams added another successful conversion to make the score 38-0.
The Midshipmen completed their first-half scoring in the 39th minute through sophomore flanker Jude Ballinger. Navy constructed a sustained attacking possession that moved the ball deep into Penn State territory. Scrum half Sean Donohue delivered a quick pass to Ballinger, who finished the sequence with a try. Williams converted again, sending Navy into halftime with an overwhelming 45-0 advantage.
Seven tries and five successful conversions during the opening 40 minutes reflected one of Navy’s most complete offensive halves of the season. The Midshipmen repeatedly forced Penn State to defend near its own try line while limiting opportunities for the Nittany Lions to establish possession. Navy’s forwards controlled the physical exchanges, and its backs consistently created scoring opportunities in open space. The combination produced a halftime margin that effectively decided the contest before the second half began.
Navy’s Forwards Continue the Dominance After Halftime
Despite holding a substantial advantage, Navy maintained its intensity when play resumed. Gerber scored in the 43rd minute after powering through three Penn State defenders during a physical attacking sequence. The senior flanker demonstrated impressive strength and determination, extending the Midshipmen’s lead to 50-0. Ganse followed with his first collegiate conversion kick, making the score 52-0.
The touchdown highlighted the contributions of Navy’s forwards, who played a critical role in controlling the match. While the backs generated several explosive scoring plays, the forward unit provided the physical foundation for Navy’s offensive success. Their ability to win possession, advance through contact and maintain pressure around the breakdown helped keep Penn State pinned deep in its own territory. The Midshipmen’s balanced approach made it extremely difficult for the Nittany Lions to slow the attack.
Junior lock Grant Goddard added another try in the 65th minute following a powerful forward maul. Navy advanced the ball inside Penn State’s five-meter line before Goddard finished the possession with a score. Ganse converted to extend the lead to 59-0, giving the Midshipmen another example of their effectiveness in close-range attacking situations. The scoring sequence reinforced Navy’s ability to dominate both the physical and technical aspects of the game.
Baublitz Completes the Rout With His Second Try
Baublitz delivered Navy’s final score in the 72nd minute, completing an outstanding individual performance. Skidmore initiated the opportunity with an explosive run that disrupted Penn State’s defensive alignment. Baublitz collected an offload and powered through contact, carrying a defender into the try zone. The score established the final 64-0 margin and gave the senior center his second try of the afternoon.
Baublitz joined Gray and Skidmore as Navy’s three multiple-try scorers. Each player contributed 10 points, reflecting the balanced nature of the Midshipmen’s attack. The trio combined for six tries and 30 points, nearly half of Navy’s final total. Their performances helped turn a matchup between nationally ranked programs into a one-sided victory.
Navy’s scoring depth extended well beyond those three players. Unini, Ballinger, Gerber and Goddard each contributed a try, giving the Midshipmen seven different try scorers. Williams and Ganse added production through successful conversion kicks, ensuring Navy maximized several scoring opportunities. The variety of contributors demonstrated why opponents have struggled to contain Navy throughout the fall season.
Navy Defense Completes Third Shutout of the Season
Although Navy’s 64-point offensive explosion dominated the headlines, the defensive performance deserves equal recognition. The Midshipmen held Penn State scoreless for the entire match, recording their third shutout of the fall campaign. Navy consistently applied pressure in Penn State territory, forcing penalties, handling errors and hurried decisions. The Nittany Lions struggled to establish sustained attacking possessions against the Midshipmen’s organized defensive structure.
Navy’s defensive pressure began producing results almost immediately. Gerber’s blocked clearance kick created the opening try, setting the tone for an afternoon in which the Midshipmen repeatedly converted defensive pressure into offensive opportunities. Navy’s aggressive pursuit and coordinated tackling prevented Penn State from developing a consistent rhythm. The visitors spent much of the afternoon attempting to escape their own territory rather than threatening Navy’s try line.
Penn State generated one of its best scoring opportunities during the closing minutes. In the 75th minute, the Nittany Lions recovered a loose ball and advanced into Navy’s 22-meter area. The visitors pushed toward the try line, hoping to avoid a shutout against the nation’s top-ranked team. Navy’s defense responded with a determined goal-line stand, holding the ball up and forcing a turnover to preserve the clean sheet.
The late defensive stop demonstrated the mentality that has helped Navy build its undefeated record. Even with the outcome decided, the Midshipmen refused to surrender an unnecessary score. Maintaining that level of concentration throughout an entire match requires discipline and commitment from every player. Navy finished the afternoon with another shutout against a nationally ranked opponent.
Gavin Hickie’s Program Continues to Set the Standard
Navy director of rugby Gavin Hickie has established a program built around physical preparation, offensive balance and defensive accountability. Those characteristics were evident throughout Saturday’s victory over Penn State. The Midshipmen controlled the match from the opening minutes and maintained their intensity even after building a substantial advantage. Their ability to execute across multiple phases of play reflected the preparation and consistency that have defined the fall campaign.
Hickie emphasized the significance of beginning and ending the fall season with shutout victories. Navy opened its campaign with a 50-0 win and concluded it with an even more dominant 64-0 performance. Those results demonstrated the team’s ability to establish its identity early and maintain that standard throughout the schedule. The coaching staff also praised the willingness of players to support one another and execute the team’s attacking strategy.
The victory over Penn State provided another example of the program’s impressive depth. Seven players scored tries, and multiple positions contributed to Navy’s offensive success. The Midshipmen generated points through open-field running, creative kicking, strong forward play and sustained attacking possessions. That versatility makes Navy particularly difficult to defend because opponents cannot concentrate on stopping one specific offensive approach.
Navy Finishes Perfect 9-0 Fall Season
Navy’s undefeated 9-0 record represents a significant accomplishment against a schedule featuring competitive collegiate rugby opponents. The Midshipmen also completed Rugby East play with a perfect 6-0 conference record. Saturday’s victory over ninth-ranked Penn State demonstrated that Navy could dominate a nationally recognized opponent rather than simply defeat less competitive teams. The 64-point performance provided a fitting conclusion to an outstanding fall campaign.
The Midshipmen scored at least 60 points in four matches during the season, showcasing their ability to produce explosive offensive performances. They also recorded three shutouts, demonstrating that their success extended well beyond attacking production. Navy’s ability to combine prolific scoring with disciplined defense has helped separate the program from many of its competitors. The victory over Penn State brought both strengths together in one of the team’s most impressive performances.
Navy’s perfect fall record also places the program in a strong position as it prepares for the next phase of its competitive schedule. The Midshipmen have established confidence through consistent victories while gaining valuable experience against conference opponents. Their younger contributors have developed alongside experienced veterans, creating a roster capable of succeeding through multiple playing styles. Maintaining that balance will remain important as the program pursues its larger championship ambitions.
Navy vs. Penn State Scoring Summary
| Time | Navy Scorer | Score |
|---|---|---|
| 6th minute | Andrew Baublitz try | 5-0 |
| 11th minute | Nonso Unini try, Kade Williams conversion | 12-0 |
| 19th minute | Jack Skidmore try | 17-0 |
| 21st minute | Liam Gray try, Williams conversion | 24-0 |
| 25th minute | Liam Gray try, Williams conversion | 31-0 |
| 30th minute | Jack Skidmore try, Williams conversion | 38-0 |
| 39th minute | Jude Ballinger try, Williams conversion | 45-0 |
| 43rd minute | Aidan Gerber try, Avion Ganse conversion | 52-0 |
| 65th minute | Grant Goddard try, Ganse conversion | 59-0 |
| 72nd minute | Andrew Baublitz try | 64-0 |
Final Score: Navy 64, Penn State 0
Individual Scoring Leaders
| Player | Tries | Conversions | Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Andrew Baublitz | 2 | 0 | 10 |
| Liam Gray | 2 | 0 | 10 |
| Jack Skidmore | 2 | 0 | 10 |
| Kade Williams | 0 | 5 | 10 |
| Avion Ganse | 0 | 2 | 4 |
| Nonso Unini | 1 | 0 | 5 |
| Jude Ballinger | 1 | 0 | 5 |
| Aidan Gerber | 1 | 0 | 5 |
| Grant Goddard | 1 | 0 | 5 |
MSB Take: Navy Looks Like a National Championship Contender
There is winning, and then there is the kind of complete domination Navy displayed against Penn State. Defeating the nation’s ninth-ranked team would have been an impressive accomplishment under almost any circumstances. Winning by 64 points without surrendering a single score sends a much stronger message about the Midshipmen’s capabilities. Navy looked like a program operating at an entirely different level throughout Saturday’s contest.
The most impressive aspect of the performance was not simply the final score. Navy demonstrated complete control of the match through its forwards, backs, defensive pressure and overall execution. Seven different players scored tries, and the team generated offense through multiple attacking approaches. That balance will become increasingly important against stronger opponents capable of limiting individual scoring threats.
Navy’s defensive performance deserves particular attention because shutting out a nationally ranked opponent requires more than offensive superiority. The Midshipmen maintained their defensive structure throughout the afternoon and refused to surrender points even during Penn State’s late scoring opportunity. That determination reflects a championship-level mentality and an understanding that every possession matters. Teams that combine explosive offense with that kind of defensive commitment are extremely difficult to defeat.
The undefeated 9-0 fall campaign also demonstrates the consistency Hickie has established within the program. Navy did not simply produce one spectacular performance against Penn State; the Midshipmen delivered strong results throughout their schedule. Their four 60-point games and three shutouts reflect sustained excellence on both sides of the ball. The challenge now becomes maintaining that standard as the competition intensifies.
From a Maryland sports perspective, Navy’s rugby program deserves considerably more attention than it typically receives. The Midshipmen continue representing Annapolis and the Naval Academy at an exceptionally high level while competing against nationally recognized programs. Their success demonstrates the quality of collegiate rugby being played in Maryland and the dedication required to build a championship-caliber team. A perfect fall season should generate excitement about what Navy can accomplish next.
What’s Next for Navy Men’s Rugby?
With its fall schedule complete, Navy will turn its attention toward preparing for the next stage of the collegiate rugby season. The Midshipmen enter that preparation period with an undefeated record, the nation’s top ranking and considerable momentum following their shutout victory over Penn State. Maintaining physical conditioning, refining tactical execution and continuing to develop roster depth will be important priorities. The coaching staff will also have an opportunity to evaluate the team’s fall performances and identify areas for further improvement.
The ultimate goal for a program of Navy’s caliber extends beyond an undefeated fall campaign. The Midshipmen want to compete for national championships and continue establishing themselves among the country’s elite collegiate rugby programs. Their 64-0 victory over Penn State demonstrated the potential of a roster capable of producing explosive offensive performances while maintaining exceptional defensive discipline. If Navy carries that standard into its remaining season, the Midshipmen will be a formidable opponent for any program in the nation.
