<p>Lafalum84,
I agree with most of what you wrote. However, I believe that Army and Navy no longer play Patriot League teams in football because a win does not currently count toward bowl eligibility. If a team has 57 scholarship (or equivalencies in terms of need-based aid), it is a ‘counter’ school. Until recently, my understanding is that Lafayette typically would have around 55 equivalencies. Over the last few years that number has dropped to around 44. I suspect that both Army and Navy will vote ‘yes’ on the upcoming scholarship vote, so that they can again play their Patriot league brethren and have it count for bowl eligibility. I wouldn’t be surprised if American also votes yes, even though it does not field a football team, if it views that a ‘yes’ vote would enhance the long-term viability of the league.</p>
<p>While it is true that Lafayette never beat Army or Navy in the '80s and early '90s, and there were some blowout losses (e.g. Navy 56 - LC 14 in '85, Army 56 - LC 0 in '90, Army 41 - LC 21 in '96, Army 41 - LC 14 in '97), many of the games were competitive. (Army 26 - LC 20 in '82, Army 56 - LC 48 in '86, Army 49 - LC 37 in '87, Army 24, LC 17 in '88, Army 34 - LC 20 in '89, Army 38 - LC 36 in '92, Navy 7 - LC 0 in '94). BTW, it was Frank Bauer ('89) who made the cover of Sports Illustrated, not Frank Novak ('84), although both Franks were good QBs.</p>
<p>I too will be watching with much interest.</p>