What Football Conference Is Navy In? (2025 Update)

By Sarah Miller · October 15, 2044

The United States Naval Academy football team, known as the Navy Midshipmen, competes in the American Athletic Conference (AAC) of the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS). They joined the AAC in 2015 after previously being an independent and a member of the Eastern Collegiate Athletic Conference.

Overview of Navy Football

The Navy Midshipmen football program represents the United States Naval Academy in college football. With a storied history dating back to 1879, Navy is one of the most respected programs in the service academies and has produced numerous NFL players and military leaders. Since 2015, Navy has competed in the American Athletic Conference (AAC), marking a significant shift from its long-standing status as an independent program.

Conference Affiliation History

Pre-1997: Navy competed as an independent with no formal conference affiliation.
1997–2003: Member of the Eastern Collegiate Athletic Conference (ECAC) for scheduling purposes only; not a full football conference member.
2004–2014: Continued as an independent while joining the Patriot League for non-football sports.
2015–Present: Full football member of the American Athletic Conference (AAC).

American Athletic Conference Membership

Navy's entry into the AAC was a strategic move to ensure competitive stability and secure a consistent path to bowl eligibility and national exposure. While Navy does not participate in the AAC championship due to military commitments during graduation week, it plays a full conference schedule and is eligible for bowl berths through conference tie-ins.

Why Navy Joined the AAC

Guaranteed nine conference games per season, simplifying scheduling.
Increased television exposure through AAC media partnerships.
Better access to postseason opportunities via conference-affiliated bowls.
Strong regional and competitive alignment with other AAC members.

Season	Conference Record	Overall Record	Bowl Game	AAC Finish
2015	5–3	11–2	Foster Farms Bowl	Tied 3rd
2017	6–2	7–6	Armed Forces Bowl	Tied 2nd
2019	6–2	11–2	Liberty Bowl	Tied 2nd
2021	5–3	8–5	Armed Forces Bowl	Tied 4th
2023	5–3	7–6	Armed Forces Bowl	Tied 5th

Table data source:1, 2

The data shows that since joining the AAC, Navy has maintained a competitive presence, regularly achieving winning conference records and qualifying for postseason play. Their best performances came in 2015 and 2019, both seasons with 6–2 conference marks and over 10 wins overall. Despite fluctuations, Navy remains a consistent mid-tier contender within the AAC.

Key Rivalries and Traditions

Navy’s football identity extends beyond conference play. The annual Army–Navy Game is one of the most iconic rivalries in college sports, held each December regardless of conference affiliation. This game is part of the Commander-in-Chief's Trophy series, which also includes Air Force.

Notable Annual Matchups

Army–Navy Game: Played annually since 1927, this rivalry transcends conference alignments and draws national attention.
Air Force–Navy Game: Rotates locations and is key to the CINC Trophy competition.
Rivalry with Notre Dame: One of the oldest in college football, though now played intermittently.

Future Outlook and Conference Stability

As realignment reshapes the NCAA landscape, Navy has reaffirmed its commitment to the AAC despite departures of key members like Cincinnati, Houston, and SMU to the Big 12. The academy values the conference’s geographic footprint and scheduling structure.

Potential Realignment Scenarios

Navy is expected to remain in the AAC through at least 2030 under current agreements.
No official interest has been expressed in joining the Big 12 or other Power Five conferences.
The AAC continues to strengthen with new members such as UAB, UTSA, and FAU.

FAQs About What Football Conference Is Navy In

What conference does Navy football currently play in?

Navy football competes in the American Athletic Conference (AAC) as a full member for football, having joined in 2015.

Does Navy participate in the AAC Championship Game?

No, Navy does not participate in the AAC Championship Game because it conflicts with graduation and commissioning activities for midshipmen in December.

Why didn't Navy join a Power Five conference?

Navy prioritizes institutional fit, military mission compatibility, and scheduling flexibility over Power Five membership, making the AAC a more suitable long-term home.

Has Navy ever won the American Athletic Conference title?

Navy has finished as high as tied for second in the AAC standings (2017, 2019) but has not claimed an outright conference title due to not playing in the championship game.

Is Navy football moving to another conference soon?

There are no current plans for Navy to leave the AAC. The academy has committed to the conference long-term, focusing on stability and academic alignment with member institutions.