Yale Football Defeated Holy Cross in Season Opener
The Bulldogs overcame a deficit to secure a 38-28 victory against Holy Cross on Friday.
Updated on Sept. 20, 2026 in Football
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Yale launched its football season with a 38-28 win over Holy Cross. The Bulldogs staged a late rally, scoring 17 unanswered points in the final minutes of the game.
Why it matters
The victory marked a successful start for Yale as they look to build momentum early in the college football schedule. It also served as a notable milestone for the coaching staff during the team's opening effort.
Quarterback Dante Reno completed 30 of 43 passes for 454 yards and five touchdowns. Wide receiver Jaxton Santiago contributed with 12 catches for 234 yards, including a 75-yard touchdown reception.
The players
Dante Reno
He is the starting quarterback for the Yale football team who threw for over 450 yards in the season opener.
Kevin Cahill
He is the head coach of the Yale football program and secured his first victory in this role during this game.
Jaxton Santiago
He is a wide receiver for Yale who recorded 12 catches and two touchdowns in the victory.
Lucius Anderson
He is a wide receiver for the Bulldogs who tallied nine catches for 155 yards and two touchdowns.
Graham Smith
He is a Yale football player who caught the go-ahead touchdown pass in the final minutes of the contest.
The details
Yale secured the win after Dante Reno connected with Graham Smith for a go-ahead touchdown with 3:42 remaining in the game. The team dominated the final stretch, scoring 17 unanswered points in the last 9:36 to pull away from their opponent.
Timeline
The game took place on September 19, 2026.
Yale is scheduled to face Cornell on September 26, 2026.
Season Trajectory
This win provides Yale with critical momentum as they prepare to open their conference schedule against Cornell. The offensive performance sets a high bar for the Bulldogs as they seek to compete for the Ivy League title.
Dante Reno's 454-yard performance significantly boosts his standing in early season offensive rankings. The late 17-point surge provides the team with a statistical advantage heading into their next matchup.
The takeaway
Yale demonstrated significant offensive depth and late-game poise in their season-opening win. Fans should watch how the team maintains this momentum as they transition into conference play.
What happens next
Yale will play against Cornell on September 26, 2026.
Further reading
For more updates on the Bulldogs, visit the Football section.
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