Yale Cornell Football

The Yale Cornell football rivalry is one of the most historic and enduring in the Ivy League, with the two teams first meeting on the field in 1890. The series between Yale University and Cornell University has been marked by intense competition, with both teams vying for dominance in the league. Over the years, the rivalry has been shaped by the unique histories and traditions of the two institutions, as well as the talented players and coaches who have contributed to the series.

History of the Rivalry

The first game between Yale and Cornell was played on November 27, 1890, with Yale emerging victorious by a score of 16-0. In the early years of the series, Yale dominated, winning 12 of the first 15 meetings between the two teams. However, Cornell began to assert itself in the early 20th century, and the series has been closely contested ever since. Today, Yale leads the all-time series 49-36-2, but Cornell has had its share of victories, including a streak of five consecutive wins from 2005 to 2009.

Notable Games and Moments

One of the most notable games in the series was the 1950 contest, which ended in a 14-14 tie. The game was marked by a fierce defensive battle, with both teams struggling to move the ball. In the end, the tie was a fitting result, as neither team was able to gain a decisive advantage. Another notable moment in the series was the 1988 game, which Yale won 31-24. The game was marked by a thrilling comeback by Yale, which trailed 24-10 at halftime before scoring 21 unanswered points in the second half to win the game.

Coaches and Players

Both Yale and Cornell have had their share of talented coaches and players over the years. Yale’s Carm Cozza is one of the most iconic figures in the series, having coached the Bulldogs from 1965 to 1996. Cozza led Yale to 10 Ivy League championships and was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2002. Cornell’s Pete Mangurian is another notable coach, having led the Big Red from 1998 to 2000. Mangurian’s teams were known for their discipline and toughness, and he was able to lead Cornell to several upset victories over Yale during his tenure.

As for players, Yale's quarterback Eric Johnson is one of the most notable figures in the series. Johnson played for Yale from 2001 to 2004 and was a two-time Ivy League Player of the Year. He led the Bulldogs to two Ivy League championships and was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in 2005. Cornell's Luke Siurano is another notable player, having played running back for the Big Red from 2005 to 2008. Siurano was a two-time All-Ivy League selection and was known for his speed and elusiveness on the field.

Current State of the Rivalry

Today, the Yale Cornell football rivalry remains as intense and competitive as ever. Both teams are committed to excellence on the field and in the classroom, and the series continues to be marked by closely contested games and dramatic finishes. In recent years, Yale has had the upper hand, winning four of the last five meetings between the two teams. However, Cornell is always a formidable opponent, and the Big Red are looking to regain the upper hand in the series.