Summary
Makes sure no other big college football games are shown on TV at the same time as the Army-Navy game.
What problem does this solve?
The growth of college football playoffs threatens to schedule games on the same day as the Army-Navy game, taking away its special national focus. This order tells government groups to work with sports leagues to create a special TV time just for the Army-Navy game.
Who does this affect?
- Military Service Academies
- College Football Organizations (NCAA, CFP)
- Broadcasting and Media Companies
What does this order do?
Establishes an exclusive broadcast policy
Creates a U.S. policy that no other college football playoff or postseason game should be broadcast in a way that directly conflicts with the Army-Navy Game.
Requires coordination to create an exclusive window
Directs the Secretary of Commerce and the FCC Chairman to work with college football groups and broadcasters to set aside an exclusive TV time for the Army-Navy Game.
Prompts review of public interest duties
Asks the FCC Chairman to look into whether TV stations have a duty to the public to treat the Army-Navy Game as a special national event.
What is the real world impact?
•
Represents government involvement in private sports scheduling
Directs federal agencies to influence the broadcast schedules of non-government entities like the NCAA and media partners, which some may see as overreach.
•
Ensures a national spotlight for military service academies
Keeps the focus on the Army-Navy game, which is described as a morale-building event for the military and a symbol of the American spirit.
When does this start?
This order takes effect on March 20, 2026.