CBS criticized for not showing flyover before Army-Navy Game

CBS Sports has long been the home of the Army-Navy Game. The network has shown it every year since 1996 and will do so through at least 2038. This year’s game — commemorating the 250th anniversary of both military branches — is at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, marking the fifth time it has been held at the home of the Ravens. Both teams are wearing special uniforms during the game, the 126th all-time meeting between the two programs on the gridiron.

One tradition that occurs before the game involves both branches. When their respective service academy takes the field, the Army and Navy each conduct a flyover.

While the fans in Baltimore saw it, no one at home did. While it’s normally shown on CBS, it wasn’t this time around.

Fans watching the game at home weren’t happy about the flyover being cut from the broadcast. It’s especially noticiable considering the fact that the game was not only celebrating the 250th anniversary of the Army and Navy, but it’s the last one to be played before the nation’s 250th anniversary celebration on July 4.

Here’s a sampling of some of the social media reaction:

Sydney Hunte

Sydney is an Atlanta-based journalist who has covered everything from SEC and ACC football to MLS, the U.S. men's national soccer team and professional tennis. His work has appeared on such platforms as SB Nation, Cox Media Group and FanSided.