As the Navy Midshipmen prepare for their high-stakes showdown against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, one name is turning heads in the college football world: Blake Horvath. The Navy quarterback, a Heisman Trophy contender, is emerging as a powerhouse in both passing and rushing, leading his team to an undefeated season and securing a place among the nation’s elite players.
Horvath’s incredible performance this season has sparked unexpected Heisman chatter, placing him alongside stars like Ashton Jeanty and Travis Hunter. As Navy’s top playmaker, he’s scored 10 touchdowns on the ground and thrown for another 10, with only one interception — an impressive feat for the junior. Horvath’s impact on Navy’s explosive offense, which ranks fourth nationally with an average of 44.8 points per game, has been transformative. Navy boasts a 100% red-zone efficiency, scoring in each of their 23 attempts, and Horvath’s playmaking ability is a critical reason for this success.
Head coach Drew Cronic credits Horvath’s decision-making and control of the game for Navy’s impressive record. Cronic’s innovative offense has allowed Horvath to showcase both his passing and rushing skills, making him one of only three quarterbacks in the FBS with double-digit rushing and passing touchdowns. His athleticism and football IQ have led Pro Football Focus to rate him as the top overall quarterback with a 92.7 grade, highlighting his game-changing potential.
The Notre Dame matchup is crucial, not only for Navy’s playoff aspirations but also as a possible “Heisman moment” for Horvath. ABC will broadcast the game at MetLife Stadium in front of a packed crowd, amplifying the stakes for both teams. For Horvath, this game offers a golden opportunity to cement his status as a Heisman contender, but it will not be easy. Notre Dame’s defense is formidable, ranking fifth in scoring and tenth in total defense, allowing just 11.9 points per game.
A victory against Notre Dame would further legitimize Navy’s playoff hopes, while a standout performance from Horvath could propel him even higher in the Heisman conversation. With Navy ranked 24th nationally and aiming to represent the Group of Five in the College Football Playoff, the stakes for this game couldn’t be higher.
Blake Horvath has shown he’s ready for the challenge, and a win over Notre Dame could be the defining moment that propels both his Heisman bid and Navy’s season to new heights. As fans and pundits eagerly await this game, Horvath’s journey toward college football greatness continues to captivate the nation.
