Central Louisiana News

U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy and Dan Sullivan, along with 54 congressional colleagues and two senators-elect, have addressed a letter to the executive directors of the College Football Playoff and Bowl Season. The letter urges them to maintain the tradition of dedicating the second Saturday in December exclusively for the Army-Navy football game.

The signatories expressed their concerns about potential scheduling conflicts due to an expanded College Football Playoff (CFP) that might lead to other bowl games being played on the same day as the Army-Navy game. "The Army vs. Navy Football Game – affectionately known as 'America’s Game' – has long been recognized as one of the greatest events in all of college sports," they wrote.

The members emphasized that this game has historically been played even during challenging times like World War II and continues to be a significant event watched by millions, including military personnel. They noted that it is always held in a sold-out NFL venue, bringing patriotism and pageantry to fans both at the stadium and in host cities.

The letter highlighted concerns that additional games could detract from focusing on the Armed Forces, which is central to this nationally televised event. "Young Americans often cite the pregame events as igniting their interest in serving in uniform," they continued.

Cassidy and Sullivan were joined by several U.S. Senators, including Jack Reed, Joni Ernst, Tim Kaine, Joe Manchin, Tom Cotton, Marsha Blackburn, Tommy Tuberville, Angus King, Jacky Rosen, Krysten Sinema, Chris Murphy, Ben Cardin, Steve Daines, Jeanne Shaheen, Mark Kelly, Cindy Hyde-Smith, Chris Van Hollen, Kevin Cramer, Cynthia Lummis among others. Additionally involved were senators-elect David McCormick and Tim Sheehy alongside numerous U.S. Representatives such as Robert Wittman and Mike Garcia.

They concluded by expressing hope for collaboration with college football leaders to protect what they referred to as "America's Game."