It was difficult to find fault with the rationale considering the circumstances.
Following a phenomenal start to the season, quarterback Zach Abey began to struggle and so did the Navy offense.
Abey rushed for 870 yards and nine touchdowns in leading Navy to a 5-0 record. However, opponents quickly figured out the 6-foot-2, 212-pounder was doing almost all his damage between the tackles, almost like a second fullback in the triple-option offense.
Defensive coordinators started stacking the box with 10 defenders and daring the Midshipmen to take the ball outside. Abey does not have the speed or quickness to be much of a perimeter threat and also had trouble pitching the ball.