The world of Ivy League football may not generate the same attention as some of the Power Five conferences, but make no mistake: the games are just as competitive and fierce, particularly when two of the league’s most storied programs—Harvard and Cornell—clash on the gridiron. On Friday, October 11, 2024, at 6 p.m. ET, Harvard and Cornell will face off in a battle that could have significant implications in the Ivy League standings.
With a long history of rivalry, academic prestige, and on-field excellence, Harvard vs. Cornell is more than just a football game—it’s a battle of tradition and pride. Both teams will be vying for a crucial conference win to solidify their position in the Ivy League. As the season progresses, every game takes on added importance, making this matchup a must-watch event for fans of college football, especially those who appreciate the significance of Ivy League sports.
This article covers everything you need to know about the game, from how to watch and stream it live to a detailed analysis of each team, key players to watch, odds, and predictions.
How to Watch Harvard vs. Cornell: TV & Streaming Information
TV Broadcast
- ESPN+: The game will be broadcast live on ESPN+, the official streaming platform for Ivy League sports. ESPN+ offers extensive coverage of Ivy League football, making it the go-to platform for fans wanting to catch all the action from this exciting matchup. ESPN+ requires a subscription but is accessible through a variety of devices, including smart TVs, streaming devices, mobile phones, and tablets.
Streaming Options
- FuboTV: For fans looking for a more comprehensive streaming experience, FuboTV is a great option. FuboTV offers ESPN+ in its package, allowing you to stream the game on your preferred device. Additionally, FuboTV offers a free trial for new users, so you can catch the Harvard vs. Cornell game without committing to a long-term subscription.
- Hulu + Live TV: Another popular streaming platform is Hulu + Live TV, which also offers access to ESPN+. Hulu’s service provides a mix of live sports coverage and on-demand entertainment, making it a versatile option for fans looking to watch Harvard vs. Cornell and enjoy other content.
- Sling TV: Sling TV is another streaming service that offers access to ESPN+ through its package options. Sling TV’s affordability and flexibility make it a great alternative for fans who want to watch the game without breaking the bank.
Mobile Streaming Options
- ESPN App: The ESPN App allows you to stream the game live on your mobile device or tablet. All you need is an ESPN+ subscription, and you’ll be able to watch Harvard vs. Cornell from anywhere.
- Yahoo Sports App: The Yahoo Sports App occasionally streams live college football games, including Ivy League matchups. It’s a free-to-use app that provides an additional option for mobile viewing.
Harvard Team Preview
Overview
The Harvard Crimson football program is synonymous with success, both on and off the field. With a proud tradition dating back over a century, Harvard has consistently been one of the top teams in the Ivy League. Under the leadership of long-time head coach Tim Murphy, Harvard has built a program that emphasizes discipline, toughness, and sound execution.
Heading into the matchup against Cornell, Harvard has shown a strong blend of offense and defense, with the ability to control the game on both sides of the ball. The Crimson rely on a balanced attack and a stout defense that can adapt to any situation.
Offense
Harvard’s offense is led by quarterback Charles DePrima, who has emerged as one of the most reliable passers in the Ivy League. DePrima’s ability to read defenses and make smart decisions has been a key factor in Harvard’s offensive success. He’s also capable of making plays with his legs, adding a dual-threat dimension to the Crimson’s attack.
Running back Aidan Borguet provides balance to Harvard’s offense with his hard-nosed running style. Borguet is a powerful runner who excels between the tackles, but he also has the speed to break outside and create big plays. Harvard’s offensive line has been particularly strong in the run game, creating ample opportunities for Borguet to exploit opposing defenses.
In the passing game, wide receiver Kym Wimberly has been DePrima’s favorite target. Wimberly’s speed and route-running ability make him a constant deep threat, and he has the ability to stretch the field and open up space for the running game. Tight end Haven Montefalco is also a key contributor in the passing game, providing a big target over the middle of the field.
Defense
Harvard’s defense is the backbone of the team, consistently ranking among the best in the Ivy League. The Crimson defense is anchored by a strong front seven, led by defensive end Jacob Sykes and linebacker Jack McGowan. Sykes is a relentless pass rusher who can disrupt the opposing quarterback, while McGowan is a tackling machine who excels in both run defense and pass coverage.
The secondary is led by cornerback Alex Washington, who has a knack for making big plays in the passing game. Washington’s ability to shut down opposing receivers is critical to Harvard’s defensive scheme, and his leadership in the secondary helps the Crimson limit big plays.
Harvard’s defense is known for its physicality and discipline, making it difficult for opponents to find success on the ground or through the air. The Crimson excel at forcing turnovers and putting pressure on the opposing offense, which will be crucial in the matchup against Cornell.
Key Players to Watch for Harvard
- Charles DePrima (QB): DePrima’s leadership and decision-making will be key in managing the game and keeping the offense moving.
- Aidan Borguet (RB): Borguet’s ability to control the ground game will be crucial for Harvard’s offensive success.
- Kym Wimberly (WR): Wimberly’s deep threat ability will force Cornell’s defense to stay honest and open up the running game.
- Jacob Sykes (DE): Sykes’ pass-rushing ability could make life difficult for Cornell’s quarterback.
- Alex Washington (CB): Washington’s lockdown coverage will be essential in limiting Cornell’s passing attack.
Cornell Team Preview
Overview
The Cornell Big Red football program may not have the same recent success as Harvard, but they are always a tough out in Ivy League play. Under head coach David Archer, Cornell has built a team that plays with heart and determination. The Big Red rely on a balanced approach, with a strong running game and a defense that emphasizes fundamentals and team play.
Cornell enters this matchup looking to pull off a big upset against one of the Ivy League’s top teams. To do so, they’ll need to play mistake-free football and capitalize on every opportunity that presents itself.
Offense
Cornell’s offense is built around its ground game, led by running back Devon Brewer. Brewer is a workhorse back who excels at gaining tough yards between the tackles. Cornell’s offensive line is strong in the run game, creating lanes for Brewer to exploit. If Cornell can establish the run early, it will take pressure off their passing game and allow them to control the tempo of the game.
At quarterback, Jameson Wang leads the Big Red’s offense. Wang is a mobile quarterback who can extend plays with his legs and make throws on the run. While he’s not known for putting up gaudy passing numbers, Wang’s dual-threat ability keeps defenses off balance and allows Cornell to mix in read-option plays and play-action passes.
Cornell’s receiving corps is led by wide receiver Thomas Glover, who has emerged as a reliable target for Wang. Glover’s size and ability to make contested catches make him a key part of Cornell’s passing attack, particularly in third-down situations and in the red zone. Tight end Matt Robbert also provides a big target over the middle and is an important part of Cornell’s short passing game.
Defense
Cornell’s defense is known for its disciplined approach, focusing on stopping the run and limiting big plays. The Big Red are led by linebacker Jake Stebbins, who is the heart and soul of the defense. Stebbins is a tackling machine who excels in both run defense and pass coverage. His leadership on the field is invaluable to Cornell’s defensive unit.
Defensive end Connor Henderson is Cornell’s top pass rusher, and his ability to get to the quarterback will be crucial in this game. If Henderson can generate pressure on DePrima, it could force Harvard into mistakes and give Cornell a chance to swing the momentum.
In the secondary, cornerback Eric Diggs will be tasked with covering Harvard’s top receivers. Diggs has shown the ability to lock down opposing receivers, but he will need to be at his best to slow down Wimberly and the rest of Harvard’s passing attack.
Key Players to Watch for Cornell
- Jameson Wang (QB): Wang’s dual-threat ability will be key to keeping Harvard’s defense off balance.
- Devon Brewer (RB): Brewer’s ability to control the ground game will be crucial to Cornell’s offensive success.
- Thomas Glover (WR): Glover’s size and contested catch ability will be important in Cornell’s passing game.
- Jake Stebbins (LB): Stebbins is the leader of Cornell’s defense and will need to make big plays to keep the game close.
- Connor Henderson (DE): Henderson’s pass-rushing ability could be a game-changer if he can disrupt Harvard’s passing game.
Odds and Predictions
As of now, Harvard is the clear favorite heading into this game, with oddsmakers giving the Crimson a sizable edge in terms of both talent and recent performance. Harvard’s balance on offense and their stout defense make them a difficult team to beat, especially for a Cornell team that has struggled at times this season.
- Spread: Harvard -14.5
- Over/Under: 48.5 points
Prediction
Harvard’s offense, led by Charles DePrima and Aidan Borguet, should be able to move the ball effectively against Cornell’s defense. While Cornell’s defense has shown promise, they may struggle to keep up with Harvard’s balanced attack. On the other side of the ball, Harvard’s defense will likely stifle Cornell’s running game and force Jameson Wang to win the game through the air, which could lead to turnovers.
Final Score Prediction: Harvard 31, Cornell 14
The Harvard vs. Cornell matchup is an intriguing Ivy League clash between two programs with rich histories. Harvard enters the game as the heavy favorite, with a well-rounded team capable of winning on both sides of the ball. Cornell, however, is always a scrappy opponent and will look to pull off the upset with a strong running game and disciplined defense.
Fans can watch the game live on ESPN+ or stream it through services like FuboTV and Hulu + Live TV. As the Ivy League season progresses, every game becomes more important, and this one is no exception. With conference standings and bragging rights on the line, Harvard and Cornell will leave it all on the field in this exciting matchup.
