Sports

Villanova Hosts Harvard in Historic FCS Playoff Matchup

Published

1 week ago

23 November, 2025

editorial

Villanova University will host Harvard University in the first round of the Division I Football Championship on Saturday, marking a significant moment in FCS playoff history. This year is notable as it is the first time the Ivy League is participating in the tournament, adding a new layer of competition.

Harvard suffered its first loss of the season against Yale, falling 45-28. The outcome of that game led to both teams sharing the Ivy League title, with Yale securing the automatic playoff spot. Harvard was selected as an at-large team, giving them the opportunity to compete in the postseason.

Villanova earned the No. 12 seed with a strong record of 9-2 and will have the home-field advantage at Villanova Stadium. This matchup will be the first encounter between the two programs, adding an intriguing element to the competition.

Villanova’s Strong Track Record

The Wildcats are riding a remarkable wave of success, having won 22 consecutive games at Villanova Stadium and eight straight overall. This current streak is the program’s longest in 16 years. Villanova has made the NCAA tournament for the third consecutive year and for the 17th time overall. In its last two playoff appearances, the team has triumphed in the first round, defeating Eastern Kentucky last season and Youngstown State in 2023.

The winner of Saturday’s contest will advance to face the No. 5 seed, Lehigh University, on December 6, 2023. In addition, the CAA champion, Rhode Island, has drawn the No. 9 seed and will host Central Connecticut State on the same day. Meanwhile, Yale has also received a second Ivy League bid, earning a trip to No. 15 Youngstown State.

As the playoffs begin, Villanova aims to leverage its home advantage and momentum to continue its successful run in the tournament, while Harvard seeks to make its mark in its inaugural FCS playoff appearance. With both teams bringing strong performances throughout the season, spectators can anticipate an exciting showdown on Saturday.