Navy dominates VMI with 52-7 victory, as backup quarterback Braxton Woodson rushes for 180 yards and scores two long touchdowns.
Navy Midshipmen Crush VMI Keydets in Season Opener
The Navy Midshipmen kicked off their 2025 season in style, dominating the VMI Keydets with a commanding 45-7 victory on August 30. The Midshipmen's defense was a force to be reckoned with, allowing only nine first downs and a meagre 212 total yards.
On offense, Navy showcased a potent attack, racking up an impressive 556 yards of total offense. Starter Blake Horvath had a solid outing, completing 6 of 7 passes for 66 yards before being substituted. His replacement, backup quarterback Braxton Woodson, stole the show. Woodson represented the Navy Midshipmen in his first full season-opening game, rushing for an impressive 180 yards and scoring two long touchdowns.
The first half was a one-sided affair, with Navy leading VMI 28-0. Horvath threw an 18-yard touchdown pass to Eli Heidenreich, moving Heidenreich two touchdown receptions away from tying the academy record held by Rob Taylor and Phil McConkey. Owen Sweeney also made a significant impact, catching a 75-yard touchdown pass from Collin Shannon, making the score 31-7.
The second half saw Woodson continue his impressive performance, scoring two long touchdown runs to extend Navy's lead. Shane Reynolds then sealed the victory with a 4-yard touchdown, wrapping up the scoring at 45-7.
This victory marks the 11th time in the last 12 years that Navy has gone to a bowl game after winning their season opener. The Midshipmen will look to carry this momentum into their next game and continue their quest for another bowl appearance.
