The rivalry between Yale and Harvard is one of the most enduring and iconic in American football. The two universities, both members of the Ivy League, have been competing against each other since 1875, with the series being one of the oldest in college football. The Yale-Harvard game is often referred to as "The Game," and it is a highly anticipated event that attracts significant attention from fans, alumni, and the media. The rivalry is fueled by the proximity of the two universities, with Yale located in New Haven, Connecticut, and Harvard located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, just a few hours apart.
History of the Rivalry
The first game between Yale and Harvard was played on November 13, 1875, with Harvard winning 4-0. Since then, the two teams have met 137 times, with Yale leading the series 67-60-8. The series has been marked by periods of dominance by both teams, with Yale winning 18 of the first 20 games, and Harvard winning 12 of 14 games from 1966 to 1979. The rivalry has also been marked by notable upsets, with the 1968 game being one of the most famous, as Harvard came back from a 16-point deficit to win 29-29, in a game that was famously dubbed a “win” by the Harvard Crimson newspaper.
Notable Games and Moments
One of the most notable games in the series was the 2005 game, which was played at Harvard Stadium in front of a sold-out crowd of over 30,000 fans. Yale won the game 34-13, but the game was marked by a brawl between the two teams, which resulted in several players being ejected from the game. Another notable game was the 2019 game, which was played at Yale Bowl in front of a crowd of over 50,000 fans. Harvard won the game 45-27, but the game was marked by a strong performance by Yale’s quarterback, Kurt Rawlings, who threw for over 300 yards and two touchdowns.
| Year | Winner | Score |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | Harvard | 45-27 |
| 2018 | Harvard | 45-27 |
| 2017 | Yale | 24-3 |
| 2016 | Harvard | 45-28 |
| 2015 | Harvard | 38-19 |
The rivalry between Yale and Harvard has also been marked by notable performances by individual players. One of the most notable players in the series is Yale's running back, Tyler Varga, who rushed for over 1,000 yards in the 2014 season, and was named the Ivy League Player of the Year. Another notable player is Harvard's quarterback, Colton Chapple, who threw for over 3,000 yards in the 2012 season, and was named the Ivy League Rookie of the Year.
Coaching and Strategy
The coaching and strategy employed by both teams have played a significant role in the outcome of the games. Yale’s coach, Tony Reno, has been known for his aggressive approach to the game, often employing a pro-style offense that emphasizes the run. On the other hand, Harvard’s coach, Tim Murphy, has been known for his more conservative approach, often employing a spread offense that emphasizes the pass. The coaching and strategy employed by both teams have been influenced by the evolution of the game, with both teams adapting to changes in the rules and the style of play.
What is the significance of the Yale-Harvard game?
+The Yale-Harvard game is significant because it is one of the oldest and most enduring rivalries in college football. The game is often seen as a symbol of the rivalry between the two universities, with the winner being seen as the superior school. The game also has significant implications for the Ivy League championship, with the winner often being crowned the champion.
Who has won the most games in the series?
+Yale has won the most games in the series, with 67 wins to Harvard's 60. The series has been marked by periods of dominance by both teams, with Yale winning 18 of the first 20 games, and Harvard winning 12 of 14 games from 1966 to 1979.
The Yale-Harvard rivalry is a significant part of American football history, with the two teams having competed against each other for over 140 years. The series has been marked by notable games, individual performances, and coaching strategies, and continues to be one of the most anticipated and closely watched games in college football. The rivalry is a testament to the enduring legacy of the two universities, and the significant role that football plays in American sports culture.
