Despite some last-minute success, the Lions were unable to beat the Big Green and take first place in the Ivy League.

On Saturday, Columbia football (4-2, 2-1, Ivy) took on conference leader Dartmouth (6-0, 3-0, Ivy) for its annual Homecoming game and a fight for first place in the Ivy League. Despite two previous Ivy wins this season and a packed stadium, the Lions failed to best the Big Green in a highly anticipated game. Still, after being pressed in the first half, the Lions found their stride and secured two back-to-back touchdowns in the fourth quarter. 

Following a slow start, Dartmouth dominated the second quarter with a field goal and touchdown, shutting the Columbia offense out with a 10-0 score at the half. The Lions later found their momentum after a third-quarter touchdown and two consecutive touchdown passes by Quarterback Cole Freeman (CC ‘26) in the fourth. However, their last-minute surge wasn’t enough to shake the Big Green, with the final score at 24-21.

In a postgame interview, Columbia Head Coach Jon Poppe commended the Lion’s perseverance, sharing his pride for them and “what they ended up almost doing.” He acknowledged their loss, admitting that he “maybe let the moment get too big,” but still expressed optimism for the weeks ahead. Poppe, who joined Columbia Football in December 2023, has led the team to some remarkable wins so far, following their 3-7 record last season. 

Despite the defeat, the Columbia community was in high spirits for the Homecoming game, taking in the sunny weather and picturesque views from Lawrence A. Wien Stadium. Baker Athletics Complex was awash in blue and white as students, alumni, and their families enjoyed tailgates, Roar-ee photo opps, and stadium fare. With 12,642 fans in attendance, the game saw the largest crowd at Wien Stadium since 2017. 

The Lions will face another Ivy League competitor, Yale (4-2, 1-2, Ivy), at home this Saturday, November 1 at 7 pm.

Columbia Football via CUAthletics