This Saturday marks the 117th annual Army-Navy game, one of the country’s most intense football rivalries and an event marked with high profile attendees and die-hard fans flying in from around the world.

In attendance this year will be President-elect Donald Trump, following a long tradition of his predecessors to show support as the Commander in Chief of the US Military. He will cheer from the Army Black Knights side from the first half of the game, then from the Navy Midshipmen side for the second half, as is Presidential tradition.

The Black Knights will be sporting new uniforms for the game. Designed by Nike, the uniforms will honor the 82nd Airborne Division, known for their expertise in parachuting into enemy territories during World War II. The Midshipmen will be donned in Under Armour-designed “Beat Army” uniforms.

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Though the Navy has dominated the past 14 years, many are forecasting a win for the Army. For the first time since 1997, the Army is entering the series with a winning record. They have also not played a game since November 19, giving them a full 3 weeks off to prepare for the standoff. The Navy, on the other hand, played (and lost) their game last Saturday, during which two of their top players, backup quarterback Will Worth (who replaced first string quarterback Tago Smith in September) and team captain Toneo Gulley, suffered season-ending injuries.

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The Merritt Family at Last Years Game

Over 71,000 people will be attending the sold out game at M&T Stadium in Baltimore. With average ticket prices around $300, it’s one of the most coveted games of the season. The pre-game Tailgate is an experience in itself, with celebrations and libations starting early in the morning, and going late into the evening even after the game has ended.

Nine Line is excited to be joining the festivities this year, and will be celebrating our recently announced partnership with Graham Allen, also known to the Facebook community as the Daily Rants Guy, who is renowned for his outspoken views on flag burning and Constitutional rights. Join our founders Daniel and Tyler Merritt, along with Graham, and several Veteran employees, as we raise awareness for the Nine Line Foundation, and celebrate the Army’s first win in 15 years!

Yeah, we’re a little biased, get over it. GO ARMY, BEAT NAVY!

 

 

 

Photo Credits:
https://www.beatnavyuniform.com/
http://www.baltimoreravens.com/gameday/mt-bank-stadium/army-navy.html
http://www.capitalgazette.com/multimedia/photos/cgnews-special-uniforms-for-2016-armynavy-football-game-20161206-photogallery.html