What's happened
Cincinnati faces a weakened lineup in the Liberty Bowl against Navy, with key players transferring or injured, including quarterback Brendan Sorsby. Navy, with a 10-2 record, is favored to win, leveraging their strong rushing attack and Cincinnati's defensive vulnerabilities. The game highlights roster challenges and strategic shifts.
What's behind the headline?
Strategic Disadvantage for Cincinnati
Cincinnati's depleted roster, especially on offense and defense, will likely hinder their performance. The absence of Sorsby, who accounted for 341 yards and three touchdowns in his last game, leaves the team relying on less experienced quarterbacks, increasing the risk of turnovers and mistakes.
Navy's Offensive Edge
Navy's run-heavy offense, led by Blake Horvath with 1,147 rushing yards, will exploit Cincinnati's weak run defense, which ranked 104th nationally. Navy's ability to control the clock and impose their option attack should give them a decisive advantage.
Defensive Challenges
Cincinnati's secondary is significantly weakened, with four starters missing due to transfer, which could allow Navy to pass more effectively if needed. Meanwhile, Navy's defense has shown resilience, holding Memphis to under 20 points in their recent game.
Broader Implications
This matchup underscores the impact roster changes have on bowl outcomes. Navy's consistency and recent success contrast sharply with Cincinnati's instability, making Navy the likely winner. The game also highlights how transfer portal activity can dramatically alter team dynamics and expectations.
What the papers say
The NY Post reports that Cincinnati's key players, including quarterback Brendan Sorsby and star defensive end Dontay Corleone, are absent due to transfers, leaving the team at a disadvantage. The AP News highlights Navy's recent victory over Memphis and their strong season record, emphasizing their offensive strengths. The NY Post also notes Navy's recent bowl experience and the betting odds favoring Navy by 7 points, supported by DraftKings' promotion. These sources collectively portray a game heavily influenced by roster upheaval and strategic mismatches, with Navy positioned to capitalize on Cincinnati's depleted lineup.
How we got here
Cincinnati's football team is dealing with significant roster losses ahead of the Liberty Bowl, including their starting quarterback Brendan Sorsby, who entered the transfer portal. The team also lost key defensive players, impacting their defensive strength. Navy, meanwhile, finished the season 10-2 and has recent bowl experience, including a win over Memphis. The game is set against a backdrop of roster upheaval and strategic adjustments.
Go deeper
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The Navy Midshipmen are the athletic teams that represent the United States Naval Academy. The academy sponsors 33 varsity sports teams and 12 club sport teams. Both men's and women's teams are called Navy Midshipmen or "Mids".
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The Cincinnati Bearcats are the athletic teams that represent the University of Cincinnati. The teams compete in the NCAA's Division I and the Football Bowl Subdivision as members of the Big 12 Conference.
In September 2021, Cincinnati received and accep