In the end, senior slotback Reggie Campbell was standing on a platform, a baton in his hand, leading the Navy band and smiling, as men and women sang their alma mater after the Midshipmen's 38-3 victory yesterday over Army.

It was the most fitting place Campbell could have been. After all, he had led the band all day long on the football field, playing a major role in Navy's unprecedented sixth straight victory over its archrival before an announced 70,610 at M&T; Bank Stadium.

Poinsettia Bowl Navy vs. Mountain West Conference opponent, San Diego, Dec. 20, 9 p.m., ESPN, 1090 AM

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WHAT WENT RIGHT

The Navy defense played its best game of the season. Linebackers Ross Pospisil and Irv Spencer recovered fumbles, and slotback Bobby Doyle blocked a punt. The Mids limited Army to three points.

WHAT WENT WRONG

For one of the rare times this season, the offense struggled under quarterback Kaipo-Noa Kaheaku-Enhada, sustaining one extended scoring drive. It covered 52 yards in four plays and took 1:34. Zerbin Singleton scored with 46 seconds left in the first quarter.

DEFINING MOMENT

Reggie Campbell's school-record kickoff for 98 yards for a touchdown put the Mids up 14-3.

WHAT IT MEANS

Navy has beaten Army an unmatched six straight times and won the Commander in Chief's Trophy five straight times.

UP NEXT

The Mids (8-4) will play in the Poinsettia Bowl in San Diego on Dec. 20. They learn their opponent today.

SANDRA McKEE