Dartmouth Football Faces Largest Loss in a Decade Against Harvard
In a significant Ivy League matchup, Dartmouth football struggled in the fourth quarter, falling 31-10 to Harvard University. The defeat marked Dartmouth's largest loss in ten years.
Game Overview and Team Reaction
Outside the cold Harvard Stadium on a November Saturday, the Dartmouth Big Green players were visibly somber. After the loss, a group of Dartmouth defenders linked arms in a circle, showing unity despite the setback.
“Look ahead.” — Sean Williams ’26, Safety and Team Captain
Following the game, the team headed to the locker room and then to buses for the return journey to Hanover.
Coach and Player Reflections
“It is what it is. We didn’t play the game we wanted to. It's not the outcome we wanted.” — Head Coach Sammy McCorkle
Starting quarterback Grayson Saunier ’27 reflected on the team’s start:
“We came out excited, ready to go, and we didn’t have a great start. We can’t be inconsistent …This is the first time we went three-and-out on the first drive all year.”
Game Details
- Dartmouth’s defense struggled early, allowing Harvard to convert three third downs on the opening drive.
- Harvard scored first, establishing a 7-0 lead.
- Dartmouth’s offense was forced to punt after just three plays on their initial drive.
Despite a lively crowd of Dartmouth fans energized by tailgates, the team could not maintain momentum on the field.
Author’s summary: Dartmouth football suffered a tough 31-10 defeat to Harvard, marking their biggest loss in a decade with struggles on both defense and offense in a critical Ivy League game.