Jakobi Buchanan hits the gap and drives an Air Force defender backwards as quarterback Bryson Daily speeds through the opening. Buchanan leads Daily into another gap for a critical run.
The senior running back’s role may have changed from featured back in the flexbone to more of a lead blocker in the gun option. But, Buchanan continues to make a difference in Army’s offense.
There may not be a more unselfish Army player than Buchanan.
Both coach Jeff Monken and offensive coordinator Drew Thatcher acknowledged Buchanan’s importance in Army’s 23-3 victory over No. 17 Air Force during their media briefings this week.
“I was really proud of him,” Thatcher said. “He was kind of our honorary captain going into that game. He came in that Air Force game and really set the tone. He had a couple of crushing blocks that opened up some holes for Bryson. He’s such an unselfish kid. He wants what is best for the team.”
Buchanan and Army are an 11-point home favorite against Holy Cross at Michie Stadium today.
Holy Cross (6-3) shares a common opponent with Army. The Crusaders took Boston College to the final whistle in a 31-28 loss Sept. 9. Army fell to Boston College at home 27-24 Oct. 7. Holy Cross has experienced some recent success against FBS teams, defeating UConn in 2021 and Buffalo in 2022.
Prediction time
Sal Interdonato (Black Knight Nation): Army 31, Holy Cross 14.
Seth Mendelson (Black Knight Nation): Army 38, Holy Cross 31. Holy Cross is a huge challenge to Army and might be the biggest test of the Black Knights’ defense with the exception of LSU.
