The annual Army-Navy Game isn’t going anywhere if American Athletic Conference commissioner Tim Pernetti has anything to say about it.
As discussions continue surrounding future College Football Playoff scheduling, some have wondered whether the historic rivalry game could eventually need to move from its traditional standalone spot on the calendar. Pernetti made it clear that preserving the game’s place remains a top priority.
“It doesn’t matter who owns the rights to what game. I will protect and defend the Army/Navy game… It is that important to the conference. They’re important as members.”
He doubled down on that commitment.
“We have to make sure we properly situate the Army/Navy game.”
Commissioner @Tim_Pernetti asked about ‘rumors flying around’ that the Army/Navy game will be protected amidst the growing discussions to expand the CFP:
“It’s not a rumor…it’s a fact.”
Also went on to say,
“Doesn’t matter who owns the rights to what game, I will protect… pic.twitter.com/fG96wi83Dc
— Trey Smith (@imtreysmith) July 24, 2026
To be clear, the Army-Navy Game itself is not under immediate threat. The debate centers around whether other games—whether they are conference championship contests, bowl games, or even future College Football Playoff matchups — could eventually be scheduled on the same day.
That’s exactly what many traditional college football fans hope to avoid. For decades, Army-Navy has enjoyed a unique place on the calendar as the lone FBS game of the weekend. That exclusivity has helped turn it into one of the sport’s most celebrated traditions, giving the rivalry the undivided attention it deserves.
As college football continues to change at a rapid pace, protecting iconic events like Army-Navy should remain a priority. Some traditions are simply worth preserving, regardless of how the postseason evolves.
The game in 2026 will be played at MetLife Stadium, and it will continue to be a standalone event this year. We will see if the change becomes a reality in the near future.
The annual Army-Navy Game isn’t going anywhere if American Athletic Conference commissioner Tim Pernetti has anything to say about it. As discussions continue surrounding future College Football Playoff scheduling, some have wondered whether the historic rivalry game could eventually need to move from its traditional standalone spot on the calendar.
