[2024] Billy Goat Blog - (Mids)eason Report

[SyndaKyt]

ANNAPOLIS, MD

Jun 2024

(Mids)eason Report

Long time no see! I know it has been a while since we have had a new installment of the blog. The Navy community is filled to the brim and teeming with excitement (with some delusion mixed in). As the Navy Midshipmen hit the midseason mark, the team has much to celebrate and even more to strive for. Under the adept leadership of Coach SyndaKyt, Navy has surged to an impressive 5-1 record, marking their best start in recent history. This performance has catapulted the Midshipmen to their highest ranking under his tenure, where they are currently sitting proudly at 12th in the national polls. In the coming weeks, fans and haters will continue to monitor the progress of the squad.

Leadership on and off the field has been a defining trait of this Midshipmen squad. Senior players have set the tone with their work ethic and determination, while younger players have risen to the occasion, contributing significantly in key moments. "I cannot lie, I had concerns about seniors leaving and team composition. At the end of the day, you want to create a cohesive unit," Coach SyndaKyt remarks. In the offseason, he went to work, trying a myriad of lineup combinations in practices. Just like the players the goal was to improve, particularly in game adjustments and squeezing every ounce of talent out of players. Safe to say, he has been doing that thus far at this point of the season.

The Midshipmen's defense has been a cornerstone of their success, consistently stifling opponents and making big time plays. Among all FBS teams, they are 6th in points allowed. In the AAC conference, they are first in points allowed, total yards allowed, passing yards allowed, and rushing yards allowed. Interestingly enough, a bend don't break approach has been taken, where Navy is second to last in turnovers forced at only 8. As far offense goes, it is middle of the pack, but it is close to striking a balance, with the number of passing and rushing yards only separated by 50 yards, The real calling card is their time of possession, as it seems the Midshipmen sustain long drives and play physical defense to get the ball back.

 

Midseason Awards

MVP:  Brent Lampkin - Donald Perkins. Tevaun West. What do all of these names have in common? They have accepted their roles and proved to be real workhorses in advancing the Navy offense over the past few years. Lampkin is in a unique situation, as he came into the program as a Scrambler QB but has converted into a fine bellcow RB. At 6'2, 232, he has exceptional core strength and durability to have the 2nd most rushing yards with the most carries and touchdowns in the conference. Credit to him as a senior for consistently leading the offense and making game-changing plays. He helps make this offense go.

Defensive Player of the Year (so far): Marcus Pena - The don dada, the boss, who controls and navigates the defense. The fans have dubbed him Pena-TRATION. Need I say more?

Best Baby Mid: Kyung Hui - Honestly speaking, he is under performing for where he wants to be. He is obsessive over winning and leading his troops but also wants to play well. "He's in a tough spot, for sure. He craves the wins but also wants to measure his progress. Sometimes he feels like he's not doing enough but all that matters is that he is trying not to do too much and doing what is necessary to lead us," Senior WR Tevin Griffin III reflects. The stats are not eye pooping but Hui currently has 8 passing TDs with no INTs. In a conference with tons of arm talent, he will cement himself as a great in the future.

 

Upcoming Challenges

As Navy looks ahead to the second half of the season, the schedule remains daunting. Key matchups against conference rivals will test the Midshipmen's mettle, but with the momentum built thus far, there is a palpable sense of optimism. The team aims to not only maintain their high ranking but to push further into contention for the AAC Championship and a prominent bowl game appearance

The journey continues for the Navy Midshipmen, with the next game offering another opportunity to showcase their growth and determination. As they set sail for the latter half of the season, one thing is certain: this team is poised to make history. Go Navy!