Contrasting Seasons Lead to Exciting Showdown

The 2024 Armed Forces Bowl is set to feature an exciting matchup between the Oklahoma Sooners and the Navy Midshipmen, scheduled for a noon ET kickoff on December 27 at Texas Christian University’s Amon G. Carter Stadium in Fort Worth.

Navy’s Strong Season

Riding high with a season record of 9-3, Navy is entering the bowl season off the back of a significant 31-13 victory in the Army-Navy Game. This victory marked an important highlight for the Midshipmen, who also secured the Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy for the first time in five years. The roster remains mostly intact, minimizing the impact of transfer portal movements.

Oklahoma Faces Challenges

In stark contrast, the Oklahoma Sooners have struggled through a turbulent season, ending with a disappointing 6-6 record. The team has seen considerable upheaval with at least five starters entering the transfer portal, including quarterback Jackson Arnold. Additionally, key players such as linebacker Danny Stutsman and safety Billy Bowman have chosen to opt out of the game.

Despite these challenges, Oklahoma managed to secure a surprising 24-3 victory over Alabama, showcasing resilience amidst their struggles. Freshman quarterback Michael Hawkins Jr. will step up to lead the team, having shared playing time throughout the season.

The Matchup and Predictions

The betting odds have shifted since opening, with Oklahoma now favored by just 1.5 points, while the over/under is set at 44 points. With Navy’s impressive running game averaging approximately 249.3 yards per game, they pose a significant threat on the ground.

In the lead-up to the game, experts are predicting that this matchup will be closely contested, and the outcome remains uncertain as both teams bring their distinct strengths and weaknesses to the field.

Where to Watch

The Armed Forces Bowl can be viewed on ESPN and is also available for streaming on FuboTV. Fans are encouraged to tune in to catch this thrilling college football matchup.