Annapolis, Md. – Tulane extended its dominance in the American Athletic Conference with a commanding 35-0 victory over Navy on Saturday at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium, setting a stadium attendance record of 38,914. The Green Wave’s disciplined play and strong defense secured their eighth consecutive win and 17th straight regular-season AAC victory.
Historic Defeat for Navy
This game marked a rare and painful shutout for Navy. The Midshipmen (7-3, 5-2 AAC) were shut out for the first time at home since a 12-0 loss to San Jose State in 2012 and for the first time overall since their 15-0 defeat to Army in December 2020. Navy’s offensive struggles were highlighted by two three-and-outs and a season-low 113 total yards.
In losses this season, Navy’s turnovers have been costly, with opponents scoring 48 unanswered points off turnovers, including 14 points by Tulane on Saturday.
Tulane’s Offensive Highlights
Tulane (10-0, 7-0 AAC) set the tone early, scoring on a 14-yard run by Darian Mensah with 1:07 left in the first quarter. The Green Wave maintained steady offensive pressure, with Makhi Hughes contributing two rushing touchdowns, including a 1-yard score in the third quarter. Mensah connected with Alex Bauman and Arnold Barnes III for touchdown passes in the fourth quarter, capping off Tulane’s efficient offensive performance.
The Green Wave’s offense was balanced, racking up 220 rushing yards and 138 passing yards. Mensah completed 10 of 14 passes with two touchdowns, while Hughes led all rushers with 92 yards on 20 carries.
Defensive Standouts
Tulane’s defense, led by Tyler Grubbs and Jack Tchienchou, allowed just eight first downs and 100 rushing yards. Matthew Fobbs-White recorded a critical sack, and Sam Howard’s interception in the second quarter thwarted a rare Navy scoring opportunity.
Navy’s defense had some notable performances. Senior linebacker Kyle Jacob tallied 10 tackles, marking his fourth game of the season with double-digit stops. Colin Ramos added seven tackles, including a sack that brought his career total to nine. However, the Midshipmen’s defense struggled to contain Tulane’s efficient offense.
Quarterback Woes for Navy
Navy faced additional challenges with injuries to starting quarterback Blake Horvath, who left the game in the first quarter but briefly returned in the second. Sophomore Braxton Woodson played most of the game, completing only three of 10 passes for 13 yards and throwing an interception. The Midshipmen’s rushing attack, typically their strength, was stymied by Tulane’s stout defense.
Season Milestones
Saturday’s game was significant for Navy beyond the scoreboard. All 23 seniors led the team onto the field carrying the American flag, joined by juniors Landon Robinson, Alex Tecza, and Luke Pirris, who carried flags representing their respective military branches.
Tulane Extends Series Lead
Tulane’s victory gives them a 13-12-1 edge in the all-time series against Navy, with this being just their second win in Annapolis since 2001. Tulane head coach Jon Sumrall celebrated his first win against Navy, while Brian Newberry, in his debut season as Navy’s head coach, fell to 0-1 against the Green Wave.
Looking Ahead
Tulane, now in control of its destiny for the AAC Championship, will look to extend its winning streak in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, Navy aims to regroup as they prepare for their annual rivalry game against Army in December.
