The Freedom Mortgage Military Bowl has officially announced its return to Annapolis on Monday, December 28, 2026, while also unveiling a new logo ahead of this year’s game.
Kickoff is scheduled for 2pm at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium, with ESPN set to nationally televise the matchup between teams from the ACC and the American Athletic Conference. The game will be the only bowl game airing on ESPN that day.
The 2026 game marks the first under the Freedom Mortgage Military Bowl name following the addition of Freedom Mortgage as the bowl’s new title sponsor. Organizers say the event will continue its mission of honoring and supporting members of the military while bringing college football fans from across the country to the National Capital Region.
“We can’t wait to welcome two great teams to the National Capital Region and take the field in Annapolis for the first game with the Military Bowl’s new title sponsor, Freedom Mortgage,” said Military Bowl Foundation President and Executive Director Steve Beck. “Freedom Mortgage and the Military Bowl are committed to supporting and honoring our nation’s service members and this will be another outstanding patriotic event dedicated to these brave men and women.”
Proceeds from the bowl benefit Patriot Point, the Military Bowl Foundation’s 294-acre retreat that serves wounded, ill, and injured service members, their families, and caregivers.
The game serves as the centerpiece of Military Bowl Week, with participating teams staying and practicing in the Washington, D.C. region while taking part in community events and activities. Fans are also invited to enjoy festivities throughout the week, including Military Bowl Eve and gameday celebrations in Annapolis.
“The Freedom Mortgage Military Bowl has become an annual destination for so many college football fans, combining the pageantry of college football with supporting those who defend our freedoms at home and abroad,” Beck said. “It has become a tradition for so many local residents and we are excited to welcome even more fans this year.”
Last year’s Military Bowl featured East Carolina defeating Pitt 23-17. The newly unveiled logo and title sponsorship represent the latest evolution for one of the region’s premier postseason sporting events, which has become a longstanding tradition connecting college football, military appreciation, and charitable giving.
