Navy Midshipmen vs Cincinnati Bearcats Picks and Predictions January 2nd 2026

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Navy Midshipmen enter the Liberty Bowl ranked #22, riding a 9-2 season fueled by their elite rushing attack. Cincinnati Bearcats arrive at 7-5, leaning on QB Brendan Sorsby’s passing and opportunistic defense. This postseason clash in Memphis features contrasting styles and high stakes.

Line Movement and Odds

Navy opened as a -2.5 favorite, with market support steady. Public lean favors the Midshipmen’s rushing dominance, but Cincinnati’s ATS record as an underdog has drawn sharp interest.

  • Navy Spread: -2.5 (-117)
  • Cincinnati Spread: +2.5 (-104)
  • Navy MoneyLine: -148
  • Cincinnati MoneyLine: +123
  • Total: 55.5 (-110)

For broader market context, check the latest college football odds page.

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Matchup Breakdown

QB Eli Heidenreich and RB Alex Tecza headline the Midshipmen’s ground game, which ranks 2nd nationally with 3,321 rushing yards. Navy’s ability to control tempo and force turnovers (7 fumbles recovered, 5 interceptions) provides a path to victory. Their disciplined rushing attack and opportunistic defense are their keys.

Cincinnati Outlook

QB Brendan Sorsby leads the Bearcats with 2,786 passing yards and 15 touchdowns, supported by a rushing attack that adds 2,171 yards. Cincinnati ranks top-40 nationally in scoring and passing, while their defense adds 7 fumbles recovered and multiple interceptions. Their balanced offense and defensive disruption give them cover potential.

Key Matchup / Path to Victory

The game hinges on Navy’s rushing attack against Cincinnati’s defensive front. If the Midshipmen establish rhythm early, they control tempo. Cincinnati must lean on Sorsby’s passing and turnover creation to stay inside the number.

Injuries / Availability

Navy lists TE Cody Howard and LB Ian Pourciau questionable, while RB Tyler Bradley and DE Benjamin Franklin are out.

Cincinnati has S Marqavious Saboor questionable.

Environment

Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium provides a neutral-site setting, though Navy’s disciplined style and Cincinnati’s Big 12 pedigree add intrigue. Weather conditions are stable, keeping execution clean.

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Best Bets and Prediction

Projected Final Score: Navy 31, Cincinnati 28

  • Navy -2.5 → Best Bet. Strong record as favorite and rushing dominance give them the edge.
  • Over 55.5 → Playable. Both offenses trend toward high-scoring games, pointing to points on the board.

Expect a competitive game with Navy’s rushing attack providing the difference, but Cincinnati’s resilience keeping it close. The projected score supports the favorite and a lean to the over.

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