The longstanding football rivalry between the Penn State Nittany Lions and the Syracuse Orange is set to resume with a home-and-home series in the 2027 and 2028 seasons. The Nittany Lions will host the Orange on September 4, 2027, marking Syracuse’s first visit to Happy Valley since 2009. The following year, on September 9, 2028, Penn State will travel to Syracuse for the return game. citeturn0search0
This series revives a rivalry that dates back to 1922, with the teams having met 71 times. Penn State leads the all-time series 43–23–5. The most recent matchup occurred on August 31, 2013, at MetLife Stadium, where the Nittany Lions secured a 23–17 victory over the Orange. citeturn0search8
The rivalry has been marked by intense and often controversial games, particularly during the 1950s and 1960s. Notably, in 1953, a game between the two teams escalated into a brawl after a Penn State player was shoved into the Syracuse bench, leading to a wild altercation involving players and fans. c
The upcoming games are anticipated to reignite the competitive spirit of this historic rivalry, offering fans an opportunity to witness a storied matchup that has been a significant part of college football history.
