The rivalry is back on with Navy and Maryland. That is the word coming from both schools Wednesday following the announcement that Navy and Maryland will play each other in football on Sept 10, 201,0 at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore.
The agreement comes about a little more than a month after it appeared Navy athletic director Chet Gladchuck and his Maryland counterpart Debbie Yow could not come to terms on the game. However, talks resumed between the parties a few weeks ago and they were able to iron out their differences.
“This game is special to many Marylanders and we are pleased it will be played in the 2010 season,” said Yow in a statement. “Our fans enjoy the game atmosphere in M&T Bank Stadium.”
This will be the first game between the state?s two Football Bowl Subdivision, formally Division I-A, programs since 2005. In that game, also played in Baltimore, Maryland rallied for a 23-20 win in front of 67,809 fans. The Terrapins lead the all-time series, 14-6.
“The game in 2005 was a memorable event and terrific game,” said Gladchuk in a statment. “Everyone enjoyed the atmosphere and a rematch certainly seems in order. M&T Bank Stadium is a first-class venue and we appreciate the Baltimore Ravens organization and its help in making this game possible.”
Ravens Senior Vice President for Business Ventures Dennis Manion said he was glad to see Yow and Gladchuck put their differences aside and work out a deal that benefits all parties involved in the game.
Previously, Gladchuck questioned Maryland?s desire to play Navy after it opted not to face the Midshipmen in last year?s Meineke Car Care Bowl. Instead, the Terrapins traveled to Orlando, Fla. and played Purdue in the Champs Sports Bowl.
Yow said Gladcuck did not return any of her correspondences to him. She then added that Maryland had no choice but to find another opponent for that date because they were running out of options.
“I?m really excited about it because I think, with the pageantry of college football, it?s outstanding to have it any time,” said Manion on the game. “It?s especially great to have it at the beginning of the season. It gives us another opening. It?s just a great way to kick off football.”
