ESPN Bet · as of July 10, 2026
Navy defeated VMI 52–7 in a dominant performance. Navy covered by 2.5; Game went Over by 4.5. The market closed at Navy -42.5 and the Blue Chip model made it Navy -30.9 - a gap of 11.6 points toward VMI, of which 10.9 points were beyond the model's measured factors. That was an information gap - the market pricing something the model does not carry - rather than a measured edge.
VMI managed only 212 total yards and 9 first downs, with most of the offense coming from a single 75-yard touchdown pass from Collin Shannon to Owen Sweeney. The running game was ineffective, and the team failed to sustain drives.
The defense allowed 556 total yards, including 464 rushing yards, and gave up 52 points. Navy's backup quarterback ran for 180 yards and two long touchdowns, highlighting VMI's inability to contain the option attack.
Collin Shannon threw for 197 yards and a touchdown, but the passing game was inconsistent and lacked support from the run game. The offense needs more balance and efficiency to compete.
No turnovers were forced, and special teams did not provide any game-changing plays. VMI must improve in these areas to create scoring opportunities and field position advantages.
VMI will need to address both offensive line play and defensive discipline to avoid a similar blowout. The team must establish a run game and tighten coverage to be competitive in future FCS matchups.
Navy rushed for 464 yards and 5 touchdowns, showcasing a powerful ground game that overwhelmed VMI's defense. Backup QB Braxton Woodson led with 180 yards and two long TDs, while the team averaged over 8 yards per carry.
Starter Blake Horvath was efficient (6/7, 66 yards, 1 TD) before resting, while backup Woodson added 180 rushing yards and 26 passing yards. This dual-threat capability gives Navy flexibility and keeps defenses guessing.
Navy held VMI to 212 total yards and 9 first downs, forcing a shutout until the third quarter. The defense's ability to limit big plays and control the line of scrimmage was key to the blowout win.
Navy has reached a bowl game in 11 of the last 12 seasons when winning its opener, adding motivation and confidence for the remainder of the schedule.
Despite the heavy run focus, Navy's passing was effective (9/14, 92 yards, 2 TDs), including a 75-yard TD from backup QB Collin Shannon. This balance could be crucial against tougher opponents.
At kickoff, conditions at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium were Sunny, 75°F with winds of 8 mph. Weather is not expected to be a meaningful factor in this game. Historical weather data for this game is preserved in the panel alongside. Weather data is sourced from WeatherAPI.com.
Sunny
75°F
| Measure | VMIAway | NavyHome |
|---|---|---|
| This week | 179 miles | 0 miles |
| Last week | Bye week | Bye week |
| Season total | 179 miles | 0 miles |
| Body clock | 12:00 | 12:00 |
| Rest | Season opener | Season opener |
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