Navy Football: Can Midshipmen stay in 2020 AAC title chase?
By Shane Lunnen
New quarterback will determine Navy’s season fate
When it comes to Navy, opposing teams know exactly what is coming. A heavy dose of the run game. Stopping the Midshipmen’s triple-option rushing attack is another story.
The biggest challenge for Navy is finding a replacement for quarterback Malcolm Perry, who rushed for over 2,000 yards and 21 touchdowns last season. Sophomore Perry Olsen is the most experienced quarterback on the Midshipmen roster and likely will get first team reps in fall camp.
Navy does return fullback Jamale Carothers. The junior finished second on the team behind Perry with 734 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns. Nelson Smith and CJ Williams also return and will contribute. The goal for the Midshipmen is to get as many speedy runners on the field as possible at the same time. They have a bevy of running backs and the quarterback doubles as such.
The wide receivers are satisfied to connect on a few big plays a game. Mychal Cooper was the go to guy a year ago with 18 catches for 380 yards. At 6-foot-5, 218 pounds, Cooper is the deep threat but Ryan Mitchell can also make plays when called upon.
The offensive line only returns two starters, but the Midshipmen are used to replacing this position group with guys bringing limited experience. Right tackle Billy Honaker is the star a long the line. With the versatility and speed in the backfield, the run game should work for Navy no matter who lines up front.