Kanye Udoh makes impact in first Army-Navy game

Kanye Udoh rushed the field after the thrilling finish of last year’s Army-Navy game as an Army Prep player.

Udoh was the one making an impact in the latest edition of the service-academy rivalry Saturday at Gillette Field in Foxborough, Mass.

The 220-pound freshman running back picked up the tough yards like he has throughout his first season, topping Army with 88 rushing yards in his first Army-Navy game and 17-11 win.

“It means everything to us,” Udoh said about beating Navy and winning the Commander in Chief’s trophy. “We’ve been talking about this all year. Last year I was in the stands watching the game. To be able to come out here this year and win the game, it’s a blessing.”

It was almost as if Army was saving Udoh for this moment. The freshman did not have a carry when the Black Knights went to the under-center option in their previous game, a win over Coastal Carolina on Nov. 18.

Udoh carried the ball 13 times Saturday, including a 15-yard run, Army’s longest offensive play of the day. His 88 rushing yards were the most by an Army freshman in the Army-Navy game since Kell Walker ran for 94 yards in 2016.

Udoh’s 524 rushing yards led all Army running backs this season and were second to Bryson Daily’s 901.

“It’s amazing to be able to contribute, having my teammates’ trust and having the coaches’ trust in me as a freshman,” Udoh said. “Being able to go out there and perform is amazing.”