The October 11, 2025 matchup between the Navy Midshipmen and the Temple Owls at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia brings together two programs on very different trajectories but with surprisingly similar goals: consistency, balance, and control. Navy enters this game undefeated, one of the most improved teams in the American Athletic Conference, having evolved from its traditional triple-option system into a modernized, dual-threat attack that combines power running with strategic passing under head coach Brian Newberry. Temple, on the other hand, remains in rebuilding mode but has shown encouraging signs under head coach K.C. Keeler, especially with an offense that has found balance and rhythm early in the season. For Navy, the story of 2025 has been the emergence of quarterback Blake Horvath, who has added a dynamic new layer to the Midshipmen’s offense. Horvath has thrown for over 900 yards while maintaining Navy’s trademark rushing success, using his mobility to keep defenses off balance. The Midshipmen average 38.2 points per game and have become one of the more efficient red-zone teams in the country, scoring on 91% of their opportunities. Their offensive line, anchored by veterans like Xavier McDonald and Justin Self, has been dominant in the trenches, paving the way for a backfield committee led by Dabe Fofana and Alex Tecza, who have combined for over 800 rushing yards and eight touchdowns. What makes Navy so dangerous now is its unpredictability — they can still grind clock with the run but have shown the ability to strike quickly through play-action. On the defensive side, Navy has been equally sharp, allowing just 16.8 points per game while leading the AAC in third-down defense. Linebackers Colin Ramos and Will Harbour headline a physical unit that thrives on gap control, while safety Rayuan Lane III has been a ballhawk in coverage.

Their ability to stop the run and disrupt rhythm has been key to their unbeaten run. For Temple, this matchup presents both opportunity and challenge. The Owls have averaged 31 points per game and 5.46 yards per play, showing balance through quarterback Evan Simon’s efficient play and a resurgent rushing attack averaging 4.6 yards per carry. Simon has thrown 12 touchdowns without an interception, showing poise and patience in reading defenses, while running back Edward Saydee has become a steady workhorse capable of keeping drives alive. The Owls’ offensive line has shown marked improvement, allowing the team to sustain drives and protect their quarterback. However, Temple’s defense has been inconsistent, giving up over 400 yards per game and struggling against explosive plays. To stay competitive, the Owls will need to slow Navy’s ground attack early and force Horvath into uncomfortable downfield throws. Their defensive front, led by Jordan Magee, will be tested by Navy’s interior line and constant motion-based deception. On special teams, Temple kicker Camden Price has been reliable, while Navy’s consistent punting and kick coverage have helped them control field position all season. Ultimately, this game will come down to discipline and execution — the two hallmarks of service academy football. If Navy can dictate tempo, avoid turnovers, and establish early dominance at the line of scrimmage, their balanced offense should be too much for Temple to handle over four quarters. However, if the Owls can generate early momentum at home, sustain long scoring drives, and take advantage of Navy’s occasional secondary lapses, they could make this a tighter-than-expected contest. Expect a physical, clock-controlling game where both teams lean into their identity — but Navy’s evolution and defensive toughness give them the clear edge to remain unbeaten and keep their AAC title hopes alive.