Story perspectives

Trump's Order Shields Army-Navy Game from Playoff Clash

1/20/2026

Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump plans to sign an executive order granting the Army-Navy football game an exclusive four-hour broadcast window on the second Saturday in December to shield it from College Football Playoff competition.
CBS would benefit, as it holds rights to the Army-Navy game through 2038.
Legal experts question the order’s enforceability, citing First Amendment concerns.
The Army-Navy game has been played since 1890 and remains a national symbol.

History

Historical Context

The Army-Navy football game, first held in 1890, represents a longstanding American military tradition. In 2018, CBS secured exclusive broadcasting rights through 2038, underscoring its popularity. Trump's executive order to shield the game from College Football Playoff competition raises First Amendment concerns, reflecting historical tensions between government influence and media, which could impact future broadcasting regulations.

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Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump plans to sign an executive order granting the Army-Navy football game an exclusive four-hour broadcast window on the second Saturday in December to shield it from College Football Playoff competition.
CBS would benefit, as it holds rights to the Army-Navy game through 2038.
Legal experts question the order’s enforceability, citing First Amendment concerns.
The Army-Navy game has been played since 1890 and remains a national symbol.

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