NAVY KEY: LIMIT THE EXPLOSIVE PLAYS
Navy's defense has built a reputation for forcing opponents to drive the field in short increments. This season, the Midshipmen are among the best in the Football Bowl Subdivision in methodical-drive rate, which means forcing opponents to use 10 plays or more to score. However, South Florida ranks among the national leaders in explosive plays, defined as runs of 10 yards or longer and passes of 20 yards or more. The Bulls have authored 37 plays of 20 yards or more with 12 of them resulting in scores. Quarterback Quinton Flowers has been responsible for 26 explosive plays, throwing the ball on 19 and running on seven.