The Navy Midshipmen defeated the Colorado State Rams 51-30 in the inaugural San Diego County Credit Union Poinsettia Bowl. Although Navy and Colorado State had contrasting styles of play, both teams used their explosive offenses to set the NCAA bowl record for most yards gained by both teams with 1,183.

Navy running back Reggie Campbell, the game's Offensive MVP, rushed for 116 yards, but more impressively, tied the NCAA bowl record for most points scored with 30 and also tied the NCAA bowl record for most touchdowns in a bowl game with 5. Navy linebacker Tyler Tidwell, the game's Defensive MVP, had 12 tackles, three sacks and one forced fumble.

Colorado State's offense was led by quarterback Justin Holland, who threw for 381 yards and three touchdowns. Running back Kyle Bell also had a big game with 122 yards rushing, while David Anderson and Kory Sperry both had over 100 yards receiving.