The undefeated and 25th-ranked Army Black Knights received a major boost ahead of their clash with North Texas on Saturday, as sources revealed to ESPN that star quarterback Bryson Daily will make his much-anticipated return to the lineup. Daily, the nation’s top rushing QB and the engine powering Army’s high-octane offense, sat out last week’s rivalry win over Air Force with an undisclosed injury, casting uncertainty over his status.
But after returning to practice late this week, insiders say Daily has “looked like himself” and is ready to reclaim his starting role against the Mean Green. The dynamic dual-threat’s presence looms large for an Army squad off to its best start since 1996 at 8-0 overall and 6-0 in American Athletic Conference play.
A Major Boost for the Cadets
Daily’s absence was felt in the Black Knights’ gritty victory over service academy rival Air Force last Saturday, a game in which backup QB Dewayne Coleman made his first career start. While Coleman managed the contest admirably, Daily’s game-breaking ability both through the air and on the ground was sorely missed.
According to a source close to the program, Daily took part in a walkthrough on Thursday and went through a full practice on Friday before the team departed for Denton, Texas. “He was moving around well and slinging it like the Bryson of old,” the source said. “Barring any setbacks, he’ll be under center come kickoff.”
Leading the Nation
Daily’s prolific campaign has him sitting atop the FBS leaderboards for quarterbacks in both rushing touchdowns (19) and rushing yards per game (129.8). The Black Knights’ offensive attack revolves heavily around the talented senior’s rare skill set.
In his last two full games before the injury, Daily was at his dual-threat best. He gashed East Carolina for 171 yards and five scores on the ground while throwing for 136 yards and four more TDs against UAB the following week. As Daily goes, so goes the Army offense.
CFP Implications Loom Large
With Daily back in the fold, Army has its sights set on a historic season. Ranked 25th in the latest College Football Playoff rankings, the Black Knights are positioned as the third-highest Group of Five team, behind only unbeaten AAC rival Tulane and one-loss Boise State out of the Mountain West.
A strong finish could see Army in prime position for the lucrative New Year’s Six bowl bid awarded to the highest-ranked champion from outside the Power Five. But before any postseason talk, the focus remains squarely on taking care of business against North Texas.
Proceed with Caution
Despite the overwhelmingly positive reports surrounding Daily’s return, sources indicate there remains an air of caution within the Army program. With Daily participating in just one full practice over the past two weeks, questions linger about his stamina and ability to make it through a complete game.
Insiders wouldn’t be shocked to see backup Coleman spelled in for certain situations or if the contest gets out of hand. After all, Army has its eyes on the bigger picture with championships in their crosshairs.
“The staff has full confidence in Dewayne if his number is called,” a team source told ESPN. “He’s proven himself ready and the moment won’t be too big for him. It’s a luxury to have two talented options at the most important position.”
No matter who is under center, Army’s high-powered offense will look to deploy its signature ground-and-pound attack early and often. The Black Knights lead the nation in rushing, averaging a whopping 340.1 yards per game on the ground.
With Daily back in the saddle and a massive contest looming, all eyes will be on West Point’s favorite son as he tries to make a triumphant return and keep Army’s magical season alive. The college football world will be watching.
