The 1968 Harvard-Yale football game is one of the most iconic and unforgettable matchups in the history of American college football. Played on November 23, 1968, at Harvard Stadium in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the game saw two of the Ivy League's most storied programs face off in a battle for the ages. Harvard, led by coach John Yovicsin, entered the game with a 6-2 record, while Yale, under the guidance of coach Carmen Cozza, boasted a 6-2-1 mark. The stage was set for a thrilling contest, and the two teams did not disappoint.
Game Background and Significance
The 1968 Harvard-Yale game was more than just a ordinary matchup between two Ivy League foes. It was a clash of two teams with rich histories and a deep-seated rivalry that dated back to 1875. The game was also significant because it marked the end of the regular season for both teams, and a win would give the victor a share of the Ivy League championship. The atmosphere at Harvard Stadium was electric, with a sellout crowd of over 40,000 fans in attendance. The game was also notable for its social and cultural significance, as it took place during a tumultuous period in American history, with the Vietnam War and the civil rights movement dominating the headlines.
Gameplay and Turning Points
The game itself was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams trading scores and neither able to gain a clear advantage. Harvard scored first, with a touchdown in the opening quarter, but Yale responded with a score of its own to tie the game. The Crimson regained the lead in the second quarter, but the Bulldogs fought back to take a 22-15 lead into halftime. The second half was just as intense, with Harvard scoring 14 unanswered points to take a 29-22 lead. However, Yale refused to give up, and with just 42 seconds remaining, the Bulldogs scored a touchdown to tie the game at 29-29. The game ended in a 29-29 tie, with both teams being declared co-champions of the Ivy League.
| Team | Score | First Downs | Rushing Yards | Passing Yards |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harvard | 29 | 23 | 173 | 246 |
| Yale | 29 | 20 | 191 | 192 |
Legacy and Impact
The 1968 Harvard-Yale game has had a lasting impact on the world of college football and beyond. The game’s thrilling finish and historic significance have made it a beloved and enduring part of American sports lore. The game has also been the subject of numerous books, articles, and documentaries, including a 2008 book by author Kevin Rountree, which provides a detailed and engaging account of the game and its significance. The game’s legacy continues to be felt today, with the Harvard-Yale rivalry remaining one of the most intense and closely followed in college football.
Player and Coach Profiles
The 1968 Harvard-Yale game featured a number of talented players and coaches who would go on to achieve great things in their respective careers. Harvard’s quarterback, Fran Fischer, was a standout player who would later become a successful businessman and entrepreneur. Yale’s coach, Carmen Cozza, was a highly respected figure in the world of college football, and his legacy continues to be felt at Yale and beyond. Other notable players from the game include Harvard’s Vic Gatto and Yale’s Brian Dowling, both of whom had successful careers in football and other fields.
- Harvard's Fran Fischer: quarterback and team leader
- Yale's Carmen Cozza: coach and legendary figure in college football
- Harvard's Vic Gatto: standout player and future businessman
- Yale's Brian Dowling: talented quarterback and future NFL player
What was the final score of the 1968 Harvard-Yale game?
+The final score of the 1968 Harvard-Yale game was 29-29, with the game ending in a tie.
Who were the coaches of the two teams in the 1968 Harvard-Yale game?
+The coaches of the two teams in the 1968 Harvard-Yale game were John Yovicsin (Harvard) and Carmen Cozza (Yale).
What was the significance of the 1968 Harvard-Yale game beyond the gridiron?
+The 1968 Harvard-Yale game had significant social and cultural implications, taking place during a tumultuous period in American history. The game’s outcome was also seen as a symbol of the rivalry between the two schools and the enduring legacy of the game itself.
