As the 2024 college football season reaches its midpoint, the Army West Point Black Knights have emerged as a formidable force, riding a 5-0 record. Central to their success has been the stellar play of quarterback Bryson Daily, whose leadership on the field has propelled Army to one of its best starts in recent history. Daily’s dual-threat capabilities have made him the backbone of an offense that has excelled in both the run and pass game, key components of Army’s continued dominance.
Army’s Ground Attack: The Core of Their Success
Army’s identity has long been tied to its rushing attack, and the 2024 season has been no different. The team has accumulated 1,806 rushing yards through five games, averaging an impressive 361.2 yards per game on the ground. Leading this charge is none other than Bryson Daily, whose 602 rushing yards on 95 carries (6.3 yards per attempt) and 10 rushing touchdowns have set the tone for Army’s offense. His ability to both manage the game and break off explosive runs has proven to be a game-changer.
In Army’s midseason showdown against Temple, Daily had perhaps his most dominant performance, rushing for 152 yards on 24 carries and adding three touchdowns. His poise under pressure and knack for finding running lanes have made him one of the most dangerous quarterbacks in college football when it comes to running the ball.
But it’s not just Daily doing the damage. Running back Kanye Udoh has been an excellent complement, rushing for 434 yards and six touchdowns. His powerful running style, coupled with Noah Short’s 355 rushing yards and 12.7 yards per carry, has provided a balanced attack that is tough for opponents to contain. Against Tulsa, Udoh’s 137 rushing yards on just six carries further showcased Army’s ability to dominate on the ground.
A Defense That Dominates
Army’s offense has garnered plenty of headlines, but the Black Knights’ defense has been equally impressive. Allowing just 49 points through five games, Army’s defense has become a cornerstone of their success. They’ve given up an average of only 9.8 points per game, highlighted by their ability to control the line of scrimmage and force turnovers.
Andon Thomas leads the team in tackles with 32 on the season, while Kalib Fortner and Brett Gerena have been key contributors with 29 and 22 tackles, respectively. The team has also forced six interceptions, with standout performances by Jaydan Mayes, who has recorded two interceptions and contributed nine tackles. This combination of solid tackling, forcing turnovers, and a disciplined approach has allowed Army to smother opposing offenses.
Against Rice, Army’s defense held strong, allowing only 14 points while forcing a turnover. The defensive line, led by Kyle Lewis and Eric Ford, has been disruptive in the backfield, with Lewis recording two sacks and Ford contributing 10 total tackles. The pressure they bring has kept opposing quarterbacks uncomfortable and unable to find a rhythm.
Bryson Daily’s Development as a Passer
Although Army’s offense has historically been run-heavy, Daily’s ability to keep defenses honest with his arm has added a new dimension to their attack. Through five games, Daily has completed 17 of 30 passes for 380 yards and five touchdowns, all without throwing an interception. His efficiency has been key, as he has posted a passer rating of 218.1.
Daily’s best performance as a passer came in Army’s latest victory over Tulsa, where he completed all five of his pass attempts for 140 yards and two touchdowns. His 58-yard touchdown strike to Noah Short was the highlight of the game and showcased the quarterback’s ability to deliver the big play when needed. Short, who has emerged as Army’s top receiver, has caught seven passes for 201 yards and three touchdowns on the season.
Casey Reynolds has also been a reliable target for Daily, catching five passes for 124 yards and two touchdowns. His versatility as a receiver gives Army the ability to stretch the field and take advantage of favorable matchups when defenses load the box to stop the run.
Special Teams and Red Zone Efficiency
In addition to their offense and defense, Army’s special teams have been a consistent force, contributing to the team’s overall dominance. Kicker Trey Gronotte has been perfect on extra points (27-for-27) and has connected on his only field goal attempt, a 35-yarder. Army has also excelled in red-zone efficiency, converting on 19 of 20 trips (95%) inside the opponent’s 20-yard line, with 18 of those resulting in touchdowns.
Army’s ability to control the game in all three phases—offense, defense, and special teams—has made them a complete team. Their ball control, highlighted by a time of possession advantage of 34:19 per game, has kept opponents off the field and allowed the Black Knights to dictate the pace of play.
Looking Ahead
As the season progresses, Army will look to build on their momentum and continue their march toward a potential conference championship. With Bryson Daily leading the charge, Army is primed to finish the season strong, with aspirations of adding a bowl victory to their growing list of accomplishments.
Daily’s play has made him one of the most exciting players in college football, and as he continues to develop as both a passer and runner, Army’s offense will remain one of the most difficult units to stop. The second half of the season will no doubt bring new challenges, but if Army continues playing at this level, they’ll be a team to watch come bowl season.
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