What's West Point's reputation in college football?

I've heard about West Point's football team, but I'm curious to know more. How often does the United States Military Academy at West Point compete in bowl games or finish high in the rankings?

The United States Military Academy at West Point, or simply West Point, is home to the Army Black Knights football team. The team has had varying degree of success over the years.

Historically, West Point has had a reputable football program. They've won three national championships in the past (1944, 1945, and 1946), had several undefeated seasons, and consistently produced All-American players. The team has been less dominant in more recent decades, but still maintains a solid program.

In years where they have performed well, bowl game appearances are definitely part of the mix. For instance, they've recently had appearances in 2017, 2018, 2020, and 2021. Overall, they've played in 10 bowl games, winning 7 of them. These typically aren't the major bowls like the Rose Bowl or Sugar Bowl, but instead, like the Armed Forces Bowl or Liberty Bowl.

As part of the tradition and rivalry between the military academies, the Army Black Knights compete annually against the Navy Midshipmen and the Air Force Falcons. The games are significant, especially the Army-Navy game, which is one of the most celebrated rivalries in all of college football.

In terms of their ranking, while they have not recently been at the very top of the standings among all Division I football programs, they are competitive within their conference, the Division I FBS Independents.

Remember, though, that while the competitive aspect is important, attending a Military Academy involves a lifestyle that's markedly different from civilian colleges. Cadets are training to serve their country upon graduation, and athletics are just one part of a well-rounded military education. This environment provides unique training in discipline, teamwork and leadership, all of which are highly valuable in the larger scope of life, beyond the football field.