Some rivalries are built on trash talk and grudges. Others? Honor and tradition. The Army-Navy Game belongs to the latter, a battle that transcends the gridiron and marches straight into the soul of America. Every December, as the crisp winter air settles, fans decked out in Navy Midshipmen’s blue-and-gold or Army Black Knights’ black-and-gold pack the stadium, united by a spirit no scoreboard can measure. It’s not just a game—it’s a spectacle of pride, precision, and patriotism. But the significance of this clash doesn’t stop at the final whistle. There’s a deeper mission that plays out behind the scenes, one that impacts veterans and their families in profound ways.

This year, that mission takes center stage thanks to the involvement of The American Legion, the nation’s largest veterans service organization. For the first time in the game’s 125-year rich history, a veterans-focused group has become an official sponsor of the Army and Navy Game. And they’re here with a purpose that cuts to the heart. Through its “Be the One” campaign, the American Legion is leveraging the national spotlight to combat one of the military community’s most heartbreaking challenges: suicide among veterans and service members.

“The Army-Navy Game has always been about more than football,” says Daniel Wheeler, a longtime Legion advocate. “It’s about service and sacrifice, values that align perfectly with our mission.” The Be the One campaign tackles veteran suicide, a serious issue with roughly 17 lives lost daily in the U.S. The American Legion partnered with USAA and Chevrolet to spread this vital message beyond the game. One of the sponsors has already won hearts before the game; USAA gifts two cars to deserving military families ahead of the 125 game. And it’s not just awareness.

The American Legion and the Army-Navy Game team up to make a real difference. They use the money raised to fund important programs like mental health services, community outreach, and crisis hotlines. It’s more than just a football game; it’s a chance to show support, build camaraderie, and find solutions. That’s why “It’s bigger than football,” said Army head coach Jeff Monken. “This game is about honoring those who have given everything for this country.” Navy head coach Brian Newberry agrees, adding, “It’s about showing the world the strength and unity of our military family.”

While The American Legion takes the lead this year, the game has long been a rallying point for charities aimed at supporting military families. Past collaborations with organizations like the Travis Manion Foundation and Wounded Warrior Project have spotlighted everything from scholarships for fallen service members’ children to adaptive sports programs for injured veterans. This year’s focus on mental health adds another layer of purpose, making the game a powerful reminder of the nation’s responsibility to those who’ve served.

Army Vs. Navy predictions

The stage is set for another epic Army-Navy clash, and let’s just say, the storylines are juicier than ever. Army marches in as the defending AAC champions, riding high with an 11-1 record and boasting the nation’s No. 1 rushing attack. Oh, and they’ve got bragging rights too, winning the last two matchups against Navy and three of the last five. The Black Knights have been on a tear, and their ground game? Practically unstoppable.

On the other hand, the Navy’s season has been a bit of a rollercoaster. The Midshipmen burst out of the gate with a flawless 6-0 start. But things took a nosedive with a crushing loss to Notre Dame. That loss snowballed into a tough stretch where they dropped three of their next five games, ultimately wrapping up the season at 8-3. Despite the stumble, they still managed to secure third place in the AAC standings, showing plenty of fight.

The Black Knights might have a slight edge going in. But really, it’s more about the tradition, the pride, and the whole experience of this game.