In the upcoming rivalry game between the Army and Navy football teams, Navy players will be donning a new uniform with hand-painted helmets that feature seven historic ships. Each position group will have their own corresponding class of ship that represents their role in in the game.
The Midshipmen will also be wearing U.S. naval history’s most famous quote from the Union’s Rear Admiral David Glasgow Farragut during the Battle of Mobile Bay: “Damn the Torpedoes!”
The phrase will be printed in the same typeface used on modern naval vessels. Though the quote has never been historically verified, it is still taught by the U.S. Naval Institute.
The logic behind each ship designation is described by the @NavyAthletics Twitter account:
- Linebacker: Cruiser- Provides anti-air defense and packs the biggest punch of Naval surface ships representative of the linebackers on the Navy football team
- Defensive Back: Destroyer- Known for significant fire power, speed, and anti-missile defense as are Navy's defensive backs
- Wide Receiver: Submarine- Predominantly utilized as blockers, wide receivers play a key role in driving the Navy rush attack, taking on a stealth-like persona as they blend into the rhythm of the offense but bring significant fire power when called upon, just like a Naval submarine
- Lineman: Amphibious Assault Ships- Just as a lineman's job is the create a hole for a running back or linebacker, these ships are utilized to establish the "beach head" that enables the invading force to gain access and ultimately accomplish their objective
- Quarterback: Aircraft Carrier- The QB of the Naval Fleet, the aircraft carrier is the ultimate decision maker; the "quick strike" weapon of the Naval fleet
- Running Back: Littoral Combat Ship- Like running backs, these fast and nimble ships can navigate through both crowded shallow and deep waters
- Kicker/Special Teams: Minesweeper- Much like the specific task of the Navy special teams, this small ship has a unique mission of identifying and eliminating mines