Dartmouth extended its home win streak and remained in contention in the Ivy League with a 20-17 victory over Princeton on Saturday, Nov. 8 at Memorial Field. The win marked the Big Green’s third consecutive triumph over the Tigers and their fifth in the last six meetings.
Dartmouth quarterback Grayson Saunier led the offense, completing 12 of 15 passes for 152 yards and a touchdown while also contributing 25 rushing yards and a rushing score. Running back D.J. Crowther added 96 yards on 20 carries and scored a touchdown.
With the win, Dartmouth improved to 6-2 overall and 3-2 in conference play. The team is now 4-0 at home this season, part of a five-game home winning streak dating back to last year.
Crowther opened the scoring early in the second quarter, capping a 15-play, 88-yard drive with a three-yard touchdown run. Saunier added to the lead with a 25-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Chris Corbo in the third quarter, giving Dartmouth a 20-3 advantage with 11:01 remaining in the period.
Princeton responded late. Quarterback Kai Colón led an 11-play, 80-yard drive that ended with a touchdown in the game’s final minute, cutting Dartmouth’s lead to three. However, Princeton’s onside kick attempt failed, allowing Dartmouth to kneel out the clock.
Colón passed for 266 yards, going 29 for 46, but threw two interceptions. He and Christian Lynch each scored rushing touchdowns for Princeton, which dropped to 3-5 overall and 2-3 in Ivy League play. Defensive back Harrison Keith recorded his second interception in as many games for Dartmouth, helping to stall Princeton drives.
With two conference games remaining, Dartmouth remains mathematically alive in the Ivy League title race, though trailing undefeated Harvard. The Big Green will aim to maintain momentum as they close out the season, beginning with a road contest next week.
Harvard, the current Ivy League leader at 5-0 in conference play, secured a 31-14 win over Columbia on Friday. The Crimson improved to 8-1 overall behind two rushing touchdowns from Xaviah Bascon and a pair of touchdown passes from quarterback Jaden Craig to Seamus Gilmartin.
Columbia, now 1-7 and still winless in Ivy League play, struggled offensively, failing to score until the fourth quarter. Harvard’s defense dominated early, and Columbia never recovered after a missed field goal on its opening possession.
Back in Hanover, Dartmouth’s win over Princeton kept hopes alive for a strong season finish. As playoff scenarios narrow and league standings tighten, each remaining Ivy League matchup could play a decisive role in the title race. Meanwhile, Dartmouth men’s soccer has also been making waves, stunning Harvard to reach the Ivy League Tournament final. For more Big Green coverage, follow the Independent.
