If you’re scrambling at the last minute trying to figure out what channel is army navy game on, you’re definitely not alone. It’s the one Saturday in December where the rest of the college football world goes quiet to let these two service academies take center stage. There’s something special about it. Honestly, even if you didn't go to West Point or Annapolis, you probably feel that tug of patriotism when the "March On" starts.
For the 2025 season, the answer is straightforward but has a few layers depending on how you consume your media. The 126th edition of the Army-Navy game is being broadcast live on CBS.
The kickoff is officially set for 3:00 PM ET on Saturday, December 13, 2025. It’s happening at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland. This is a big deal because the game has a long-standing "standalone" window. Basically, no other major FBS games are allowed to schedule over it. This ensures that the eyes of the nation—and every soldier and sailor stationed across the globe—are on the gridiron.
What Channel Is Army Navy Game On This Year?
CBS has been the home of this rivalry since 1996. It’s a partnership that feels as permanent as the granite at West Point. Recently, CBS Sports actually doubled down on this relationship. They signed an extension that keeps the game on their network through 2038. So, if you’re wondering where to find it in 2026, 2030, or even 2035, the answer is likely still going to be CBS.
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The Streaming Situation
Now, what if you’ve cut the cord? You aren't out of luck. Because the game is on CBS, the primary streaming home is Paramount+. Specifically, you’ll usually need the Paramount+ with SHOWTIME plan (formerly Premium) to get the live feed of your local CBS station.
But wait, there’s more. You can also catch it on:
- FuboTV: They carry CBS in most markets and offer a free trial for new users.
- Hulu + Live TV: A solid option if you already have the Disney bundle.
- YouTube TV: One of the most reliable ways to get the local broadcast.
- CBSSports.com: Sometimes they offer a free stream on their website or app, though they often require a cable provider login to keep things official.
Why This Game Is Different
Most college rivalries are built on genuine hate. Think Auburn and Alabama or Michigan and Ohio State. Army-Navy is different. It’s built on profound respect. The guys hitting each other on the field today will be literally defending each other on the same team in a few years.
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Take the "Sing Second" tradition. It’s maybe the most emotional moment in sports. After the clock hits zero, both teams stand together. They sing the alma mater of the losing school first. Then, they turn and sing the winning school's anthem. The goal for every cadet and midshipman? Sing second. Last year, Navy walked away with a 31-13 win in Baltimore, largely thanks to quarterback Blake Horvath’s massive performance. This year, the stakes are high again. Army is coming in with a 6-5 record, while Navy is sitting pretty at 9-2 and ranked in the Top 25.
The Uniform Factor
You can't talk about the game without the threads. Every year, both schools release custom uniforms that tell a story. In 2025, Army is honoring the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army. Their uniforms feature a marble tint—think the monuments in D.C.—and a "1775" on the back of the helmet.
Navy went with an "Old Ironsides" theme. They’re paying tribute to the USS Constitution, the oldest commissioned warship afloat. Their helmets have a wood-grain finish to look like the ship’s hull. It’s the kind of detail that makes you realize this isn't just about football; it's about history.
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How to Prepare for Game Day
If you're hosting a watch party, you need to know more than just what channel is army navy game on. You need the timeline.
The pre-game festivities are arguably as good as the game itself.
- The March On: Usually starts around noon or 1:00 PM ET. This is where the entire Brigade of Midshipmen and the Corps of Cadets march onto the field in formation. It’s breathtaking.
- The Leap Frogs and Golden Knights: Weather permitting, you’ll see the parachute teams from both branches drop onto the 50-yard line.
- The Prisoner Exchange: This is a quirky one. Seven students from each academy spend a semester at the rival school. Right before the game, they are "exchanged" back to their home side so they can cheer for their own team.
Is It Only on CBS?
Technically, yes, for the main broadcast. However, if you want the deep-dive analysis, CBS Sports Network (CBSSN) usually runs a bunch of "shoulder" programming. This includes the Inside College Football special and the pre-game "March On" coverage. If you want the full experience, flip to CBSSN around 11:00 AM ET before moving over to the main CBS channel for the 3:00 PM kickoff.
Practical Steps for the Best Experience
- Check Your Antenna: If you don't have cable, a cheap digital antenna will pick up CBS in high definition for free. It’s the most reliable way to avoid streaming lag.
- Verify Your Login: If you’re using Paramount+, log in on Friday night. Nothing ruins a kickoff like a "forgot password" loop.
- Radio Backup: If you’re traveling, the Westwood One radio network carries the game nationally. You can usually find it on the TuneIn app or your local sports talk station.
- Watch for the Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy: This game often decides who takes home the big hardware. If Army, Navy, and Air Force all beat each other in a circle, the previous winner retains it. This year, the trophy is a major talking point because of how well the academies have played overall.
The Army-Navy game remains a pillar of American culture. It’s a reminder of why we love sports—not just for the points, but for the people who play them. Make sure your TV is tuned to CBS by 3:00 PM ET on December 13 to catch every second.