AutoZone Liberty Bowl: Navy Midshipmen vs Cincinnati Bearcats Betting Pick & Prediction for 1/2

The 2025 AutoZone Liberty Bowl will feature a game between the Navy Midshipmen and the Cincinnati Bearcats. This game will take place at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium in Memphis, Tennessee. Fans can catch the action on ESPN on Friday, January 2, 2026, at 4:30 PM.

Navy comes into the game ranked 22nd in the AP Poll and 25th in the Coaches Poll. They hold a 9-2 record this season, with a strong 7-1 showing in their conference. On the other side, Cincinnati has a 7-5 record, including a 5-4 conference record. Both teams will look to end their seasons on a high note in this postseason matchup.

Navy Team Preview

The Navy Midshipmen recently played against the Memphis Tigers, winning 28-17. In this game, they achieved 21 first downs compared to Memphis’ 18. They also gained 212 rushing yards, outdoing Memphis’ 116 rushing yards.

Earlier in the season, Navy faced the South Florida Bulls at home, securing a 41-38 victory. Navy recorded 186 passing yards and 339 rushing yards. They managed 21 first downs, but South Florida had slightly more with 23.

Injuries are a concern for the Midshipmen, with several key players listed as questionable or out. This includes Cody Howard, a top tight end, who is questionable. The team will need to adjust their strategy with these absences.

AutoZone Liberty Bowl: Navy vs Cincinnati Game Day Info

• Sport: NCAA Football
• Teams: Navy Midshipmen vs. Cincinnati Bearcats
• Venue: Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium in Memphis, TN
• Date: Friday, January 2, 2026
• Betting Odds: Navy Moneyline -148, Cincinnati Moneyline +123, Navy Spread -2.5 (-117), Cincinnati Spread +2.5 (-104), Total Over 55.5 (-111), Total Under 55.5 (-110)

Cincinnati Team Preview

The Cincinnati Bearcats have had a tough stretch recently. They lost their last four games, including a 45-23 loss to the TCU Horned Frogs. In that game, they struggled to stop the run, allowing 238 rushing yards.

Despite the losses, Cincinnati has shown some strengths. Quarterback Brendan Sorsby has been a key player, ranking 37th in passing yards with 2,786. On the ground, Tawee Walker has led the team with 709 rushing yards.

The defense has had its moments but needs improvement. They are ranked 105th in points against, giving up 298 points. However, they have been effective at forcing turnovers, recovering seven fumbles this season.

BTB Betting Pick

The spread for the game is Navy -2.5 (-117). Navy’s rushing attack is strong, ranking 2nd, while Cincinnati’s defense has struggled, allowing 298 points this season. Given these factors, Navy is likely to cover the spread with a projected score of Navy 30, Cincinnati 27.

The total for the game is set at 55.5. Both teams have defenses that rank over 100th in points allowed, suggesting a high-scoring game. The projected combined score is 57, so the recommendation is to take the Over 55.5.