Lehigh Vs. Lafayette: The Rivalry, History, And More

# Lehigh vs. Lafayette: A Historic Rivalry

The Lehigh-Lafayette rivalry is one of the oldest and most storied in college football. Dating back to 1884, the two Pennsylvania schools have met on the gridiron over 150 times, creating a tradition filled with passion, pageantry, and unforgettable moments. This article delves into the rich history of this rivalry, exploring its key moments, traditions, and what makes it so special.

## The History of the Rivalry

The Lehigh-Lafayette rivalry, often dubbed "The Rivalry," is the longest uninterrupted college football rivalry in the nation. It all began on November 25, 1884, and has been played every year since, except for 1896 due to a dispute and 1918 because of World War I, and 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This consistent history underscores the deep-seated nature of the competition.

### Early Years and Traditions

In the early years, the game was a major social event, drawing large crowds and significant media attention. The winner would often claim bragging rights for the entire year, and the game became a symbol of pride for both institutions. Traditions began to emerge, such as the exchange of mascots and spirited pep rallies leading up to the game.

### Key Moments in the Rivalry

Over the years, the rivalry has produced numerous memorable games. Some stand out as particularly significant:

*   **1891:** Lafayette won 6-4 in a hard-fought contest.
*   **1937:** Lehigh secured a 0-0 tie in a game played in near-freezing conditions.
*   **2018:** Lafayette triumphed 27-24 in a thrilling overtime victory.

These games, and many others, have added to the rich tapestry of the rivalry.

## What Makes the Rivalry Special?

Several factors contribute to the unique character of the Lehigh-Lafayette rivalry:

### Academic Parity

Both Lehigh University and Lafayette College are highly respected academic institutions. This academic parity adds another layer to the rivalry, as the competition extends beyond the athletic field. Students and alumni take pride in their school's academic reputation, making the rivalry a clash of intellectual as well as athletic prowess.

### Proximity

Lehigh and Lafayette are located just 17 miles apart in eastern Pennsylvania. This close proximity ensures a strong sense of local pride and makes it easy for students and alumni to attend the game, further fueling the intensity of the rivalry.

### Tradition

The long history of the rivalry has created deep-seated traditions. From pre-game festivities to post-game celebrations, the traditions surrounding the game are an integral part of the experience. These traditions help to bind the communities together and create a sense of continuity from one generation to the next.

## The 150th Meeting

The 150th meeting between Lehigh and Lafayette was a historic event, held on November 22, 2014, at Yankee Stadium in New York City. This was the first time the game had been played at a neutral site in over a century, and it drew a crowd of over 48,000 fans. Lafayette won the game 27-7, adding another chapter to the rivalry's storied history.

### Significance of the Game

The 150th meeting was not just a milestone in the rivalry but also a celebration of college football history. The game's location at Yankee Stadium, one of the most iconic sporting venues in the world, underscored the importance of the event. The large crowd and national media coverage highlighted the enduring appeal of this classic rivalry.

### Impact on the Schools and Community

The game had a significant impact on both schools and their communities. It brought alumni, students, and fans together to celebrate their shared history and traditions. The game also generated positive publicity for both institutions, helping to raise their profiles on a national stage.

## Notable Players and Coaches

Over the years, the Lehigh-Lafayette rivalry has showcased many talented players and coaches. These individuals have left their mark on the game and contributed to its rich history.

### Famous Alumni

Both Lehigh and Lafayette have produced notable alumni who have gone on to achieve success in various fields. These alumni often cite their experiences in the rivalry as formative, helping to instill in them a sense of competition, teamwork, and perseverance.

### Coaching Legends

Several coaches have played a significant role in shaping the rivalry. Their leadership, strategies, and passion for the game have helped to define the character of the competition. Coaches who have achieved success in the rivalry are often revered figures in their respective school's history.

## The Future of the Rivalry

The Lehigh-Lafayette rivalry shows no signs of slowing down. As both schools continue to invest in their athletic programs and maintain their academic excellence, the rivalry is poised to remain a fixture in college football for years to come.

### Continued Importance

The rivalry continues to be important to both schools and their communities. It provides a sense of identity, tradition, and community spirit. The game is also an opportunity for students, alumni, and fans to come together and celebrate their shared history.

### Maintaining Tradition

Efforts are being made to preserve the traditions that make the rivalry so special. These traditions help to connect current students and alumni with the past, ensuring that the rivalry remains a meaningful part of the school's culture.

## FAQ Section

**Q1: How old is the Lehigh-Lafayette rivalry?**
A: The rivalry dates back to 1884, making it one of the oldest in college football.

**Q2: How many times have Lehigh and Lafayette played each other?**
A: They have played over 150 times as of 2023.

**Q3: Where is the game typically played?**
A: The game alternates between the campuses of Lehigh University and Lafayette College, though there have been a few exceptions, such as the 150th meeting at Yankee Stadium.

**Q4: Why is the rivalry so intense?**
A: The rivalry is intense due to the schools' academic parity, close proximity, and long-standing traditions.

**Q5: What are some of the traditions associated with the game?**
A: Traditions include mascot exchanges, spirited pep rallies, and post-game celebrations.

**Q6: Who won the 150th meeting?**
A: Lafayette won the 150th meeting, which was played at Yankee Stadium, by a score of 27-7.

## Conclusion

The Lehigh-Lafayette rivalry is more than just a football game; it's a celebration of history, tradition, and community. The annual contest between these two esteemed institutions represents the enduring spirit of college athletics. As the rivalry continues, it will undoubtedly produce more memorable moments and further cement its place in college football lore. Whether you're a student, alumnus, or simply a fan of the game, the Lehigh-Lafayette rivalry is a spectacle worth experiencing. Make sure to mark your calendar for the next game and witness the passion firsthand.