Hodges and Medders score, Air Force clinches Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy in 24-21 win over Army

West Point, N.Y. (AP) — Kemper Hodges and Evan Medders each scored a touchdown as Air Force overcame Army 24-21 on Saturday to claim their inaugural Commander-in-Chief's Trophy since 2022. The Falcons achieved this milestone alongside a 14-9 triumph over Navy on October 3, marking the end of a prolonged drought in the series among the three Bowl Subdivision service academies.

With this victory, Air Force (7-2) has extended their record to 22 trophy wins, six of which occurred under head coach Troy Calhoun, who boasts a 39-21-1 advantage against Army in the most continuous intersectional rivalry game. Hodges and Medders each contributed a touchdown in the first half, giving Air Force a 17-7 lead at halftime.

However, Army (5-4) broke through in the third quarter following two consecutive scoring drives. On the opening play of the fourth quarter, Medders connected with tight end Simon Kibbee for a 6-foot-6 touchdown, securing the lead for Air Force. Later, Air Force's Korey Johnson intercepted a pass from Army, but a fourth-down stop by the Black Knights along the goal line reclaimed possession.

Army managed a three-and-out and a punt with 5:18 remaining, and Air Force capitalized by marching down the field and sealing the win with 1 minute and 16 seconds left. Godspower Nwawuihe and Bryson Luter powered the Black Knights' ground game with a touchdown each and 82 and 81 yards, respectively. Air Force will host San Jose State the following Saturday.