The rivalry between Harvard and Yale, two of the most prestigious universities in the United States, is well-documented and spans across various fields, including athletics. One of the most highly anticipated events in their athletic calendar is the annual football game between the Harvard Crimson and the Yale Bulldogs. Over the years, this game has been played at different times, but in recent years, the kickoff times have been scheduled to accommodate a wider audience and to ensure maximum viewership. Here, we will look at the kickoff times for the past 12 Harvard-Yale football games.
Recent Harvard-Yale Kickoff Times
The Harvard-Yale game, often referred to as “The Game,” is traditionally played on the Saturday before Thanksgiving. The kickoff times have varied, but most games in the past decade have started in the late morning or early afternoon. This scheduling allows for a significant crowd at the stadium, as well as a considerable television audience. The Ivy League, in which both Harvard and Yale compete, has agreements with various networks to broadcast these games, further emphasizing the importance of strategic kickoff times.
Kickoff Time Trends
Analyzing the kickoff times of the past 12 Harvard-Yale games reveals a trend towards earlier start times. While there have been instances of late afternoon kickoffs, the majority of the games have started between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM EST. This trend is likely due to the desire to capture a larger television audience, as well as to accommodate the preferences of the attending fans, many of whom are alumni and students of the two universities.
| Year | Kickoff Time | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 12:00 PM EST | Harvard Stadium, Cambridge, MA |
| 2021 | 12:00 PM EST | Yale Bowl, New Haven, CT |
| 2020 | No game due to COVID-19 pandemic | - |
| 2019 | 12:00 PM EST | Harvard Stadium, Cambridge, MA |
| 2018 | 12:30 PM EST | Yale Bowl, New Haven, CT |
| 2017 | 12:30 PM EST | Harvard Stadium, Cambridge, MA |
| 2016 | 12:30 PM EST | Yale Bowl, New Haven, CT |
| 2015 | 2:30 PM EST | Harvard Stadium, Cambridge, MA |
| 2014 | 12:30 PM EST | Yale Bowl, New Haven, CT |
| 2013 | 12:00 PM EST | Harvard Stadium, Cambridge, MA |
| 2012 | 12:00 PM EST | Yale Bowl, New Haven, CT |
| 2011 | 12:00 PM EST | Harvard Stadium, Cambridge, MA |
Impact of Kickoff Times on Attendance and Viewership
The choice of kickoff time can significantly impact both attendance at the stadium and television viewership. An earlier kickoff time, for example, might attract more families and younger fans to the game, while a later start might cater more to alumni and those who prefer a more traditional football schedule. The Ivy League, in conjunction with Harvard and Yale, carefully considers these factors when determining the kickoff time for “The Game.”
Attendance Figures
Attendance at Harvard-Yale games has been consistently high, with many games selling out or coming close to the stadium’s capacity. The 2022 game, for instance, saw a near-capacity crowd at Harvard Stadium, with over 30,000 fans in attendance. This level of attendance not only reflects the popularity of the event but also underscores the importance of scheduling in attracting spectators.
Furthermore, the atmosphere of the game, with its historic rivalry and intense competition, is enhanced by the presence of a large and energetic crowd. The strategic choice of kickoff time plays a crucial role in ensuring that the stadium is filled with fans, thereby contributing to the overall experience of the game.
Why are the kickoff times for Harvard-Yale games typically in the late morning or early afternoon?
+The kickoff times are chosen to maximize attendance and television viewership. An earlier start allows for a larger crowd, as it accommodates families and younger fans, while also capturing a significant television audience.
How does the Ivy League determine the kickoff time for the Harvard-Yale game?
+The Ivy League considers several factors, including traditional rivalries, broadcasting agreements, and the preferences of attending fans, when determining the kickoff time. The goal is to balance these elements to ensure the game reaches the widest possible audience while maintaining its historic appeal.
In conclusion, the kickoff times for the Harvard-Yale football game are strategically chosen to accommodate a wide audience, both in attendance and through television broadcasting. By analyzing past kickoff times and considering the factors that influence these decisions, it’s clear that the Ivy League, Harvard, and Yale are committed to preserving the tradition and allure of “The Game” while adapting to modern demands and preferences.
