Image Source: Naval Academy Athletics
Towson vs Navy headlines Saturday’s college football action as the Midshipmen open their 2026 season at home against the Tigers. Kickoff is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. Eastern at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium in Annapolis, Maryland.
The matchup marks only the second meeting between the programs. Navy won the previous contest, defeating Towson 41-13 in Annapolis on August 30, 2008. The long-awaited rematch gives both teams an important early test, with Navy looking to build on a historic 2025 campaign and Towson attempting to rebound from a difficult opening loss.
Historic Towson vs Navy Clash Opens the Season
Navy enters the game at 0-0 after finishing last season 11-2 and ranked No. 23 in both the Associated Press and USA Today Coaches polls. The Midshipmen closed 2025 with a convincing 35-13 victory over Cincinnati in the Liberty Bowl, extending their winning streak in bowl games to four.
Head coach Brian Newberry has guided Navy to a 26-12 record during his tenure. The Midshipmen are also 3-0 in home openers under Newberry and finished a perfect 6-0 at home last season. Navy has won its last six season openers that ended with a bowl appearance, adding significance to Saturday’s contest.
The Midshipmen’s recent form has been powered by a physical rushing attack. Navy led the Football Bowl Subdivision in rushing last season, averaging 285.6 yards per game, while scoring 41 rushing touchdowns. The team also surrendered only 3.1 tackles for loss per game, the fewest in the country.
Key Navy Storylines and Players to Watch
Navy’s roster is young, ranking 134th among 138 FBS teams in career snaps played. That inexperience creates a challenge, but the program’s recent success has raised expectations for another competitive season in the American Conference.
Senior offensive guard Hoke Smith II will wear No. 68 this season in memory of former Navy lineman David Forney. Senior players such as Sean Crowley, Vic Listorti and safety Aaron Rose are also expected to provide leadership as the Midshipmen begin a demanding schedule.
Saturday will include several emotional and historic moments. Navy Athletics will dedicate its home radio booth as the Pete Medhurst Navy Radio Network Broadcast Booth. Medhurst, who died in January 2025 after battling brain cancer, was the longtime voice of Navy football and numerous other Midshipmen sports.
The game will also feature recognition of the 2025-26 Patriot League Presidents’ Cup, which Navy reclaimed after winning 10 league titles during the academic year. In addition, Navy is celebrating the 100th anniversary of its 1926 national championship throughout the 2026 season.
Towson Seeks Major Upset After Maine Defeat
Towson arrives in Annapolis with an 0-1 record after falling to Maine 21-18 in its season opener. The Tigers trailed 21-0 in the second quarter before mounting a strong comeback that nearly produced a dramatic victory.
Sophomore quarterback Andrew Indorf led Towson’s offense against Maine, completing 15 of 21 passes for 267 yards and two touchdowns. He also threw one interception. Redshirt sophomore wide receiver Cleveland Charlton delivered a standout performance, catching four passes for 136 yards and a touchdown.
Running back Kemarrion Battles added 89 rushing yards on 18 carries and caught two passes for 59 yards. On defense, linebacker Bryan Lodge and defensive back TJ Sands each recorded seven tackles and half a tackle for loss.
Towson head coach Pete Shinnick and defensive coordinator Darian Dulin bring experience from West Florida, where they helped win the Division II national championship in 2019. That background could help the Tigers prepare for Navy’s option-based offense and disciplined defensive approach.
How to Watch Towson vs Navy
- Date: Saturday, September 5, 2026
- Kickoff: 3:30 p.m. Eastern
- Location: Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium, Annapolis
- Television: CBS Sports Network
- Radio: Navy Football Radio Network
Navy has not played another home game after Saturday’s opener until October 10, making this an important opportunity for fans to see the reigning Liberty Bowl champions in person. The Midshipmen then face three consecutive true road games against Florida Atlantic, UAB and Air Force.
With Navy carrying national momentum and Towson eager to erase its opening defeat, the Towson vs Navy matchup offers an intriguing contrast between an established FBS contender and a determined FCS challenger. The result could immediately shape the early direction of both seasons.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Towson vs Navy game?
The game is scheduled for Saturday, September 5, 2026, with kickoff at 3:30 p.m. Eastern.
Where will Towson vs Navy be played?
The matchup will take place at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium in Annapolis, Maryland.
How can fans watch the game?
The game will be televised nationally on CBS Sports Network.
What is the previous record between Navy and Towson?
Navy leads the series 1-0 after winning 41-13 in the teams’ only previous meeting in 2008.
What was Towson’s result in its opener?
Towson lost 21-18 to Maine after falling behind 21-0 and mounting a late comeback.
