The Holy Cross vs. Yale football game is a highly anticipated matchup between two of the oldest and most storied programs in college football. The College of the Holy Cross, located in Worcester, Massachusetts, and Yale University, located in New Haven, Connecticut, have a long history of competition on the gridiron. The two teams first met in 1918, and since then, they have played each other a total of 36 times, with Yale holding a slight edge in the series, 20-15-1.
History of the Rivalry
The Holy Cross-Yale rivalry is steeped in tradition and is one of the most enduring in the sport. The two teams have been competing against each other for over a century, with the series dating back to 1918. During this time, both programs have experienced periods of success and struggled through times of adversity. However, through it all, the rivalry has remained strong, with each team pushing the other to be its best. The series has seen its fair share of memorable moments, including a 1945 game in which Holy Cross came from behind to defeat Yale 13-7, and a 1983 game in which Yale shut out Holy Cross 21-0.
Recent Matchups
In recent years, the series has been marked by a series of closely contested games. In 2019, Holy Cross defeated Yale 31-27 in a thrilling matchup that saw the Crusaders come from behind to win in the fourth quarter. The following year, Yale got its revenge, defeating Holy Cross 23-10 in a game that was marked by strong defensive play from both teams. The 2022 matchup saw Holy Cross emerge victorious once again, this time by a score of 38-14. These recent games have only added to the intensity and excitement of the rivalry, with each team looking to gain the upper hand in the series.
| Year | Holy Cross Score | Yale Score |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 31 | 27 |
| 2020 | 10 | 23 |
| 2022 | 38 | 14 |
Both Holy Cross and Yale have a rich history of producing talented players who have gone on to achieve success at the next level. Holy Cross has produced a number of notable alumni, including former NFL players Jon Morris and Gill Fenerty. Yale, on the other hand, has a long tradition of producing talented players, including former NFL players Larry Kelley and Calvin Hill. The rivalry between the two teams is not just about winning or losing, but about the pride and tradition that comes with competing against a fellow Ivy League or Patriot League school.
Team Statistics
When looking at the statistics, it’s clear that both Holy Cross and Yale have had their share of successes and struggles. Holy Cross has a strong running game, averaging over 150 yards per game on the ground, while Yale has a potent passing attack, averaging over 250 yards per game through the air. The two teams have also been relatively evenly matched in terms of scoring, with Holy Cross averaging around 25 points per game and Yale averaging around 22 points per game.
Coaching
The coaching staffs of both Holy Cross and Yale have played a significant role in the success of their respective programs. Bobby Benson, the head coach at Holy Cross, has been at the helm of the program since 2018 and has led the team to several winning seasons. Tony Reno, the head coach at Yale, has been in charge of the Bulldogs since 2012 and has guided the team to several Ivy League championships. The two coaches have a deep respect for one another and have consistently pushed their teams to be their best.
In terms of defense, both teams have shown the ability to shut down their opponents' offenses. Holy Cross has a strong defensive line, led by players like Kevin Bucceroni and Joe Komel, while Yale has a talented secondary, led by players like Ryan Burke and Josh Keeler. The defensive battles between the two teams have been some of the most intense and physical in the series, with each team looking to gain the upper hand.
What is the history of the Holy Cross-Yale football rivalry?
+The Holy Cross-Yale football rivalry dates back to 1918, with the two teams having played each other a total of 36 times. Yale holds a slight edge in the series, 20-15-1.
Who are some notable alumni of the Holy Cross and Yale football programs?
+Holy Cross has produced notable alumni like Jon Morris and Gill Fenerty, while Yale has produced players like Larry Kelley and Calvin Hill.
What are the strengths and weaknesses of the Holy Cross and Yale football teams?
+Holy Cross has a strong running game, while Yale has a potent passing attack. Both teams have shown the ability to shut down their opponents' offenses, with Holy Cross having a strong defensive line and Yale having a talented secondary.
In conclusion, the Holy Cross-Yale football rivalry is a unique and exciting matchup between two of the oldest and most storied programs in college football. With a rich history, talented players, and strong coaching staffs, this rivalry is sure to continue to thrill fans for years to come. Whether you’re a fan of Holy Cross or Yale, the matchup between these two teams is always a must-see event, with each team looking to gain the upper hand in the series and prove its superiority on the gridiron.
