Army-Navy Game 2011: 5 Greatest Army Players in History

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Today, Army and Navy will be kicking the ball off and battling it out for the Commander-in-Chief Trophy. 

While neither of these teams are heading to a bowl game this year, this game means more to these players than bowl games normally would.

Before the ball is kicked off, here is a look at one side of the rivalry and five of the greatest to be associated with the Army football program. 

Pete Dawkins

Pete Dawkins was the running back for Army in 1958.

Hawkins was not only a talented back, but he also played on special teams returning kicks. He had such a great season that Dawkins was named the Heisman Trophy winner in 1958.

Doc Blanchard

At Army, Doc Blanchard was part of arguably the best tandem backfield college football has ever seen. While at West Point, Blanchard never lost and added a Heisman Trophy to his résumé in 1945.

The other half of this backfield would win the Heisman Trophy the following year and is next on the list. 

Glenn Davis

That other back would be Glenn Davis. While Doc Blanchard was known as "Mr. Inside," Davis was known as "Mr. Outside."

With Blanchard missing time to an injury in 1946, Davis took advantage and earned the spotlight and the Heisman Trophy.

Joe Steffy

While Joe Steffy's career began with the Tennessee Volunteers, after one year he transferred to Army. 

While with the Black Knights, Steffy was a two-way player at guard and then at center on defense. In 1947, he won the Outland Trophy and was also respected enough by his teammates to be named a team captain. 

Earl Blaik

While Earl Blaik was a coach, he had one of the biggest impacts on Army football. Blaik coached the Black Knights from 1941-1958 and led the program to three national championships. 

During his time with Army, Blaik put together a 121-33-10 record and is the best coach Army has ever seen.