Middle Tennessee vs. Navy

December 30, 2013

Amon G. Carter Stadium (Fort Worth, TX)

Middle Tennessee Season Review

The Blue Raiders started the 2013 season off slowly, jumping out to a 3-4 start, including losses to North Carolina, BYU, and a blowout loss to North Texas. However, from there, MTSU racked up five straight wins to get themselves into a bowl game.

They were able to mount a successful season behind a strong rushing attack, finishing 25th in the nation in rush yards per game, behind Jordan Parker, who ran for 741 yards and six touchdowns, and Reggie Whatley, who ran for 631 more.

Navy Season Review

Navy continues to have great success year in and year out, despite not being able to bring in top recruits (the football kind) and running a supposedly outdated offense. Coach Ken Niumatalolo helped lead the Midshipmen to their fifth bowl game in his six seasons as head coach and back-to-back Commander-in-Chief trophies.

As expected, the Midshipmen finished the season second in the nation in rushing yards per game, and 122nd in passing yards per game. The offense is led by star quarterback Keenan Reynolds, who threw for 1,038 yards and rushed for 1,260 yards. Navy also had seven rushers over 200 yards.  

Game Matchup

Time of Possession: Both teams, MTSU and Navy, have very strong rushing attacks and are ranked 84th and 85th in rushing defense respectively. This game will move quickly and come down to who is able to move the chains and milk the clock more effectively.

Ball Security: Both teams are in the Top-15 in turnover margin. However, Navy has an advantage, as they have only turned the ball over 8 times this season, as opposed to Middle Tennessee’s 20. Since this game will likely be a back-and-forth affair, it will be imperative to secure the football, as one turnover could give the opponent the advantage they need to put the game out of reach.

Predicted Winner: Navy

Draft Impact

There are no prospects of note in this game.