It is being played a month earlier than normal because the service academy showdown was purposefully moved to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on the United States.
While it will be strange to see Navy and Air Force meet in the second week of the season, players and coaches have known that would be the case for quite some time and have planned accordingly.
On Monday, Navy coach Ken Niumatalolo and senior safety Kevin Brennan used the word “honor” many times in relation to this annual matchup being put in the spotlight because of the 9/11 anniversary.