Navy Midshipmen Star Quarterback Leaves Tulane Game Early With Injury

On By Littum

The Navy Midshipmen had an unfortunate injury update early in the game against the Tulane Green Wave that could have massive implications for the game.

Star Midshipmen quarterback Blake Horvath slowly got up after taking a hit in the first quarter and left the game shortly after heading into the blue tent. He’s been questionable at the helm due to other injuries, so that signaled potential bad news for the Midshipmen.

Horvath was dealing with back spasms, according to the release. Along with the handful of nagging injuries, he did not immediately return to the game. The training staff had him try to loosen his back while riding a stationary bike.

This is a huge matchup with both American Athletic Conference and College Football playoff implications.

The Midshipmen must win the game to stay alive in both conversations. Tulane would clinch a spot in the AAC conference championship game with a win and would do the same for the Army Black Knights, who are inactive this weekend.

Horvath’s injury had immediate implications on the game as Braxton Woodson, a sophomore, entered the game to take over at quarterback and immediately threw an interception.

That pick quickly turned into a Green Wave touchdown as quarterback Darian Mensah ran for the touchdown to open the game’s scoring.

If Horvath does not return, the Midshipmen will have to make major changes to the game plan. Woodson isn’t nearly as proven a passer as his veteran counterpart.

The sophomore is 20-of-47 through the air for his young career with 228 yards and two touchdowns with two interceptions entering the game.

Horvath, who tried to throw passes on the sideline in the second quarter, has put up big numbers on offense. He leads the Midshipmen with 870 yards rushing and 13 touchdowns.

But it’s his passing that has given Navy a bit of a wrinkle this year. He has only completed 60% of his passes, but he has thrown 117 times and has 1,154 yards passing. He has thrown 11 touchdowns, but he has also thrown four interceptions.