The Yale Harvard football rivalry is one of the most iconic and enduring in the United States, with a history spanning over 140 years. The two teams first met on November 13, 1875, with Harvard winning 4-0. Since then, they have played each other 137 times, with Harvard currently leading the series 69-60-8. The rivalry is not only about the game itself but also about the rich history, tradition, and academic excellence that both institutions represent.
History of the Rivalry
The Yale Harvard football rivalry has its roots in the late 19th century, when both universities were among the first to adopt the sport. The early games were played with varying rules and formats, but by the 1880s, the rivalry had become a regular fixture. The games were often played at neutral sites, such as New York City’s Polo Grounds, but since 1903, the teams have alternated hosting the game at their respective home stadiums, the Yale Bowl and Harvard Stadium.
Notable Games and Moments
One of the most famous games in the series was the 1968 matchup, known as the “Harvard Beats Yale 29-29” game. Despite being down 16-0 at halftime, Harvard came back to tie the game 29-29, with the Crimson scoring 22 points in the final quarter. The game was notable not only for the dramatic comeback but also for the fact that it was one of the first games to be widely reported in the media, with the New York Times headline reading “Harvard Beats Yale 29-29” in a classic example of deadpan humor.
Another notable game was the 2019 matchup, which saw Yale win 50-43 in a thrilling double-overtime game. The game was marked by a series of record-breaking performances, including Yale quarterback Kurt Rawlings throwing for 344 yards and 2 touchdowns. The game also saw a number of controversial calls by the referees, including a disputed touchdown catch by Harvard wide receiver Jack Cook.
| Year | Winner | Score |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | Yale | 50-43 (2OT) |
| 2018 | Harvard | 45-27 |
| 2017 | Yale | 24-3 |
Game Insights and Analysis
The Yale Harvard football rivalry is known for its defensive battles, with both teams often employing conservative game plans and emphasizing run defense. However, in recent years, the games have become more offense-oriented, with both teams featuring high-powered passing attacks. The 2019 game, for example, saw a combined total of 93 points, the highest scoring game in the series since 1994.
One of the key factors in the rivalry is the coaching matchup, with both teams featuring experienced and highly respected coaches. Yale's Tony Reno and Harvard's Tim Murphy have been coaching in the series for over a decade, and their game planning and adjustments often play a crucial role in the outcome of the game.
Player Profiles and Statistics
Some of the notable players in the series include Yale quarterback Kurt Rawlings, who threw for over 2,000 yards in the 2019 season, and Harvard wide receiver Jack Cook, who caught 10 touchdowns in the 2018 season. The series has also featured a number of award-winning players, including Yale’s Paul McCormick, who won the Bulger Lowe Award in 2017, and Harvard’s Justice Shelton-Mosley, who won the Asa S. Bushnell Cup in 2018.
- Yale quarterback Kurt Rawlings: 2,043 passing yards, 15 touchdowns in 2019
- Harvard wide receiver Jack Cook: 10 touchdowns, 723 receiving yards in 2018
- Yale running back Zane Dudek: 1,133 rushing yards, 10 touchdowns in 2017
What is the history of the Yale Harvard football rivalry?
+The Yale Harvard football rivalry has a history spanning over 140 years, with the two teams first meeting in 1875. The series has been played annually since 1897, with Harvard currently leading 69-60-8.
What are some notable games and moments in the series?
+Some notable games and moments in the series include the 1968 “Harvard Beats Yale 29-29” game, the 2019 double-overtime game, and the 2017 game, which saw Yale win 24-3. The series has also featured a number of award-winning players, including Yale’s Paul McCormick and Harvard’s Justice Shelton-Mosley.
