The Yale Cornell football rivalry is one of the most historic and intense in the Ivy League, with both teams having a rich tradition of competition on the gridiron. The two schools have been facing off against each other since 1890, with Yale currently holding a slight edge in the all-time series, 51-45-2. This rivalry is not only significant due to its longevity but also because of the academic and athletic excellence that both institutions represent.
History of the Rivalry
The first game between Yale and Cornell was played on November 27, 1890, with Yale winning 16-0. Since then, the teams have met annually, with the exception of a few years during World War I and World War II. Over the years, the rivalry has been marked by intense competition, with both teams frequently vying for the Ivy League championship. The games are often closely contested, with many decided by a touchdown or less.
Notable Games and Moments
One of the most notable games in the series was the 1950 contest, which ended in a 14-14 tie. This game was significant not only because of the tied score but also because it marked a turning point in the series, with Cornell beginning to challenge Yale’s dominance. Another notable moment came in 1981, when Cornell won 17-14, marking the Big Red’s first victory over the Bulldogs since 1966. This win was part of a resurgence for the Cornell program, which went on to win several Ivy League titles in the 1980s and 1990s.
In recent years, the series has continued to be highly competitive, with both teams experiencing periods of success. Yale won the Ivy League championship in 2017, while Cornell has been rebuilding its program under the leadership of head coach David Archer. The 2020 game was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but the teams resumed their rivalry in 2021, with Yale winning 17-14.
| Year | Winner | Score |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | Yale | 17-14 |
| 2019 | Yale | 49-24 |
| 2018 | Cornell | 28-24 |
| 2017 | Yale | 24-7 |
Team Statistics and Performance
Both Yale and Cornell have a long history of producing talented players and competitive teams. Yale has won 17 Ivy League championships, while Cornell has won 5. In terms of all-time records, Yale has a slight edge, with a winning percentage of .574 compared to Cornell’s .444. However, Cornell has been improving its program in recent years, with the Big Red winning 4 games in 2021, their most since 2016.
Head-to-Head Comparison
In head-to-head competition, Yale has a slight advantage, winning 51 games to Cornell’s 45, with 2 ties. However, Cornell has been competitive in recent years, winning 4 of the last 10 meetings. The series has been marked by close games, with many decided by a touchdown or less.
In terms of team statistics, Yale has a slight edge in total offense, averaging 354.5 yards per game compared to Cornell's 329.1. However, Cornell has been improving its defense, allowing an average of 24.1 points per game in 2021, down from 31.1 in 2020.
- Yale: 17 Ivy League championships, .574 all-time winning percentage
- Cornell: 5 Ivy League championships, .444 all-time winning percentage
- Head-to-head: Yale 51, Cornell 45, 2 ties
What is the history of the Yale Cornell football rivalry?
+The Yale Cornell football rivalry dates back to 1890, with the two teams meeting annually since then, except for a few years during World War I and World War II. The series is one of the most historic and intense in the Ivy League, with both teams frequently vying for the championship.
Who has won the most games in the series?
+Yale has won 51 games in the series, compared to Cornell’s 45, with 2 ties. However, Cornell has been competitive in recent years, winning 4 of the last 10 meetings.
