In a highly anticipated matchup, Dartmouth College will visit Cambridge, Massachusetts, this Saturday to take on Harvard University in the 118th edition of one of college football’s oldest rivalries. Historically, Dartmouth trails Harvard with a record of 48-64-5, but they managed to secure a thrilling victory in their last encounter in 2021, winning 20-17 with a last-minute field goal.
The Big Green enter this contest buoyed by a resounding 49-3 victory over Columbia last Friday, which improved their season record to 5-1, placing them second in the Ivy League at 2-1. Coach Sammy McCorkle and his team are eager to maintain this momentum against Harvard, despite the acknowledgment of areas that need improvement.
“We were pumped,” said defensive back Tyson Grimm ’26. “But we knew what was ahead, we knew we had Harvard coming up… we’re just hoping to carry that momentum into Harvard. We’ve played a lot of games this year where… we’ve left a lot on the table in terms of what we’re capable of.”
Quarterback Grayson Saunier ’27 reflected on the team’s previous performance, noting that while they executed well, there were still mistakes to address. “There’s always more you can correct,” he remarked, emphasizing the team’s potential for growth.
Harvard, currently ranked 12th by the Stats Perform poll and 15th in the coaches’ poll within the Football Championship Subdivision, poses a significant challenge for Dartmouth. The Crimson are looking to secure their first 6-0 start since 2015, a year in which they shared the Ivy League title with Dartmouth and the University of Pennsylvania. “They’re very disciplined, very well coached. Turnovers are a big factor; they’ll make you pay if you turn the ball over,” McCorkle commented on the impending challenge.
Dartmouth’s defense will also need to contain Harvard quarterback Jaden Craig, who averages over 250 passing yards per game, leading the Ivy League. Grimm acknowledged Craig’s talent while stressing the importance of their own performance. “It’s gonna come down to what we do… as long as we’re just assignment-sound and do everything we’re coached to do,” he said.
The camaraderie among the team has been crucial to their success, as highlighted by Grimm’s recent impactful performance against Columbia, which included a decisive pick-six. “It definitely pays dividends being best friends with everyone you’re on the field with,” he added.
Offensively, the Big Green plan to stick to their game plan despite Harvard’s prowess. Saunier stated, “We respect them… we just got to do it better than they defend it.”
For the current seniors, the matchup against Harvard carries personal significance. “The seniors have yet to beat Harvard,” Grimm explained, reflecting on their previous losses. As they head to Boston, anticipation is high with alumni support expected at the game.
This clash not only heightens the rivalry emotions but also carries significant implications for playoff positioning, as the Ivy League champion will gain entry into the FCS playoffs this season. Saturday’s game promises to be a landmark event as two historic rivals square off.
Grimm issued a rallying cry for fans attending the game. “We need to hear you. It’s gonna be an electric game… as loud as you can, save your voices… we’re gonna need all the Big Green to get hyped!” With the stakes high, this exciting matchup is set to showcase the rich tradition of college football.