NEW HAVEN, Conn. — In an exciting display of talent, Grant Jordan led the Yale Bulldogs to a convincing 42-28 victory over the Princeton Tigers on Saturday, throwing two touchdown passes and rushing for another. Josh Pitsenberger also played a crucial role, contributing three touchdowns in this historic rivalry, marking the 146th meeting between these two Ivy League teams.
The competition, known as the oldest in the Ivy League and the second oldest in the country, saw Yale rally to score the final 21 points. Pitsenberger made a significant impact by rushing for a career-high 159 yards and tying the game at 28 with a 4-yard touchdown run midway through the third quarter. Following a misstep by Princeton on a punt, Jordan took advantage, finishing a quick three-play, 13-yard drive with a 2-yard rushing touchdown to reclaim the lead. The momentum continued to build for Yale with a 90-yard drive capped off by a 31-yard touchdown pass from Jordan to Chase Nenad.
Jordan’s performance was noteworthy as he completed 13 out of 16 passes for a total of 140 yards, which included a short 5-yard touchdown pass to Pitsenberger. Additionally, Yale’s defense made its mark by scoring a touchdown of its own; Inumidun Ayo-Durojaiye forced a fumble that Ejiroghene Egodogbare returned for a 13-yard touchdown.
Despite the impressive win and a record of 6-3 overall and 3-3 in league play, Yale’s chances for a league title hang in the balance, as this game did not carry the high-stakes implications typically associated with past encounters. On the other side, Princeton’s Ethan Clark rushed for 79 yards and two touchdowns, while John Volker added a rushing score. Blaine Hipa managed to throw for 267 yards and connected with AJ Barber for a touchdown; Barber’s performance included seven receptions for 108 yards overall.
The match underscored the fierce competition and athletic prowess present in Ivy League football, showcasing not just individual talents but also the thrilling teamwork that defines this enduring rivalry.