The 121st Army-Navy game will be played on Dec. 12 at West Point, the first time since World War II the game has not been held at a neutral site.

The game is being relocated from Philadelphia due to attendance limits placed on outdoor events in Pennsylvania during the COVID-19 pandemic, which would have prevented the Corps of Cadets and Brigade of Midshipmen from attending.

“We want to thank the City of Philadelphia, the Eagles and all involved in the planning for their efforts to navigate this historic game in the current COVID-19 climate,” said Army athletic director Mike Buddie in a press release Friday. “We are excited about this historic opportunity to host Navy and the Brigade inside the gates of West Point for the first time since 1943.”

Fans other than students from the two U.S. service academies probably won’t be allowed to attend the contest at Michie Stadium in West Point, N.Y. The game will be televised by CBS at 3 p.m. ET.

Navy holds a 61-52 lead in the all-time series, including a 31-7 win last season in Philadelphia.

During World War II, the game was played at the Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md., in 1942 and at West Point in 1943. The schools also rotated hosting the first four meetings from 1890-93.

“History will repeat itself as we stage this cherished tradition on Academy grounds as was the case dating back to World War II,” Navy director of athletics Chet Gladchuk said. “Every effort was made to create a safe and acceptable environment for the Brigade, the Corps and our public while meeting city and state requirements. However, medical conditions and protocols dictate the environment in which we live.”

The Army Black Knights are off to a 5-1 start this season. The Navy Midshipmen are 3-2.

–Field Level Media