Game Preview: Youngstown State vs Yale

The Battle of the Y

Yale has proven over time to be one of the most historic and triumphant programs to ever step onto the gridiron. Whether it be the Bulldogs’ 951 total wins, 18 national championships (the most all-time), or 19 Ivy League Championships – this program takes great pride in the product placed on the field and constantly strives to sustain success.

Although Yale hasn’t won a national title since 1927, the Bulldogs are met with a unique opportunity this upcoming Saturday. Back in December of 2024, the Ivy League’s council of presidents approved a proposal that allowed the Ivy League to participate in the FCS playoffs.

A monumental decision that carries long-term implications, the implementation of Ivy League Schools into the postseason brings a new twist to the 24-team field, and a renewed sense of excitement. As the first ever auto-bid, Yale is at the forefront of a prodigious moment in history – one that could shape the image of the Ivy League as a conference forever.

Riding the high of a six-game win streak (the first time Yale has done so since 2019) and a dominant performance vs rival Harvard, the 152nd edition of Yale Football is rolling into Stambaugh Stadium with a determination to win.

Inside the Numbers

Offense

On offense, the Bulldogs are led by powerful tailback Josh Pitsenberger, who ranks second on the all-time list for Yale with 37 rushing touchdowns. He also has 1,238 rushing yards on the season, making him the first Yale player to surpass the 1,000 yard rushing mark since Zane Dudek (1,133) accomplished that feat in 2017.

A lot of Pitsenberger’s success can be attributed to a big and physical offensive line that is excellent at opening up holes in the running game. A line that has immense talent, the Bulldogs have been able to rely on experience up front to win games.

At wide receiver, Yale has one of the most explosive players in the entire FCS in Nico Brown. Averaging 16.30 yards per reception and producing six 100-yard receiving games this year, Brown has been a reliable deep option for quarterback Dante Reno.

Jaxton Santiago has also emerged as a weapon on the perimeter, hauling in 41 receptions for 583 yards and five touchdowns.

Defense

Defensively, the Bulldogs have been able to hang their hat on a relentless pass rush and an athletic backend. DE Ezekiel Larry has been a workhorse on the front line, leading the Ivy League in sacks with 10.5 and leading the team in TFLs with 11.5.

Nickelback Abu Kamara is another phenomenal talent on this defense. Kamara is utilized in different blitz packages and is moved around on the field by the coaching staff because of his versatility. With eight PBUs (leads the team) and three fumble recoveries (leads the team), he has proven to be a matchup nightmare for the opposition

Yale’s group of linebackers have also been productive, with Inumidun Ayo-Durojaiye leading the team in tackles with 96 and Phoenix Grant following that up with 82.

Keys to the Game

If Youngstown State wants to continue its season, the Penguins will have to slow down the Bulldogs’ rushing attack. Yale ranks 35th in the FCS in rushing yards per game (176.1) and is a team that likes to establish the run game first. If YSU is unable to slow down the ground attack, it could be a long night for the Penguin defense.

In addition to that, YSU has to eliminate explosive throws over the top. If wide receiver Nico Brown is able to get going and Dante Reno starts dealing, this game could very well turn into a shootout. First prioritize making Yale one dimensional, then make adjustments from there.

From an offensive perspective, this is a favorable matchup for the Penguin offense. The Bulldogs’ defense has been good statistically all season, but their lack of size on the defensive line could be a problem against an MVFC foe.

It’s hard to envision Yale effectively shutting down Beau Brungard and the YSU rushing game. For four quarters, that seems to be a daunting task. The Penguins should be able to get the win but it wouldn’t be surprising if Yale is able to put up some points and make this a tight ball game.