Does Villanova have a football team

If you have ever wondered, “Does Villanova have a football team?” you are not alone. Villanova University is famous nationwide for men’s basketball, so it is easy to miss the fact that the Wildcats also field a proud, competitive, and tradition-rich football program. The short answer is yes—Villanova does have a football team. They play at the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) level, and they have a national title on their résumé. This guide gives you a clear, beginner-friendly overview: how Villanova football works, who they play, where the program fits on campus, and how you can watch or attend a game.

Quick Answer: Yes—Meet the Villanova Wildcats Football

Where They Play and Compete

Villanova’s football team is the Villanova Wildcats. They compete in the NCAA’s Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS), which is one step below the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS). The Wildcats play home games at Villanova Stadium on the university’s campus in Villanova, Pennsylvania, just outside Philadelphia on the Main Line. The stadium features a modern artificial surface, a surrounding track, and a capacity suited to an intimate, energetic college football experience.

In football, Villanova is part of CAA Football, the football conference of the Coastal Athletic Association (still commonly called the CAA). For most other sports, Villanova competes in the Big East Conference. The Big East does not sponsor football, which is why the Wildcats belong to a separate league for the gridiron.

How FCS Works vs FBS

FCS and FBS are both Division I, but they are structured differently. FBS programs play in large stadiums and end their seasons with bowl games and the College Football Playoff. FCS programs, like Villanova, play in a national 24-team playoff bracket to decide a true champion on the field. FCS teams can also schedule games against FBS schools, which occasionally leads to memorable upsets. Scholarship rules also differ: FCS programs are allowed up to 63 football scholarships, which can be split into partial awards to support more players.

A Short History of Villanova Football

Early Years and a Pause (1894–1984)

Villanova football dates back to 1894. For decades, the Wildcats were a steady presence in East Coast college football, developing regional rivalries and sending standout players to the pros. However, due to financial pressures and changing college sports landscapes, the university discontinued varsity football after the 1980 season. For a few years, there was a pause in the program’s varsity-level competition.

Importantly, the story did not end there. Alumni support and campus interest remained strong, and the university made a plan to return to football with a sustainable model for the long term. That decision shaped everything that followed.

Rebirth Under Andy Talley (1985–2016)

The modern era began when Villanova reinstated football in the mid-1980s under head coach Andy Talley. Talley guided the program from its relaunch through three decades, patiently building a nationally respected FCS contender. Under Talley, Villanova joined the Yankee Conference (which later evolved into Atlantic 10 Football and eventually CAA Football), embraced scholarship football, upgraded facilities, and developed a reputation for smart, tough, disciplined teams.

Talley’s blueprint emphasized strong recruiting in the Mid-Atlantic, player development, and a culture that balanced academics and athletics. By the 1990s and 2000s, the Wildcats were regularly making FCS playoff appearances and producing All-Americans and NFL talent.

The 2009 National Championship

Villanova’s crowning football moment came in 2009, when the Wildcats won the FCS National Championship. They defeated Montana in a tight, physical title game, showcasing the program’s grit and depth. That season, Villanova combined opportunistic defense with a dynamic offense, earned a high playoff seed, and navigated a rugged bracket to lift the trophy. For many fans, 2009 confirmed what insiders already knew: Villanova football belongs among the best at the FCS level.

The Mark Ferrante Era

After Andy Talley retired, longtime assistant Mark Ferrante took over as head coach. Ferrante kept the program’s identity intact—physical defense, efficient offense, and player development—while updating schemes and recruiting strategies to fit the modern game. Villanova has continued to make the FCS playoffs and contend for conference titles in the 2010s and 2020s, maintaining a position as a consistent, high-level program.

Conference and Rivalries

The CAA, Explained

Villanova plays in CAA Football, a deep and competitive FCS conference with teams spread across the East Coast. The league has produced numerous national champions and perennial playoff teams. Weekly competition is demanding; road trips can be long and environments tough. That challenge helps sharpen Villanova for postseason runs.

The CAA’s brand of football emphasizes balance: you see spread offenses, power run games, and sophisticated defensive schemes. It is common for the conference to place multiple teams in the FCS playoff field each year, which speaks to its quality and national respect.

The Battle of the Blue vs. Delaware

Villanova’s premier rivalry is with the Delaware Blue Hens. Their annual matchup, known as the Battle of the Blue, comes with a trophy and plenty of bragging rights. The game often has playoff implications and routinely draws big crowds, whether it’s hosted in Villanova or Newark. The rivalry blends proximity, history, and many memorable finishes, making it a must-watch for fans of either program.

Other Regional Clashes

Beyond Delaware, Villanova’s schedule regularly includes other regional powers and historic opponents. Over the years, the Wildcats have had spirited series with schools like Richmond, New Hampshire, and William & Mary. They have also played local FBS schools such as Temple in the “Mayor’s Cup” at Lincoln Financial Field, scoring an upset in 2018. Games against nearby Ivy League programs and Patriot League opponents appear in some nonconference slates, adding variety and regional flavor.

Home Field and Game Day Experience

Villanova Stadium Basics

Villanova Stadium sits right on campus, making it easy for students and alumni to show up in force. The sightlines are close, the seating is intimate, and you can feel the energy from the first whistle. The stadium also houses the university’s track around the field, giving the complex a multi-sport feel and hosting large on-campus events throughout the year.

Because the stadium isn’t massive, you get a tight, energetic college football atmosphere without the hassle of navigating a huge venue. Families, students, and alumni mingle, creating an environment that is welcoming and lively at the same time.

What Game Day Feels Like

Game day at Villanova is about community. You will see student groups, the pep band, cheer and dance teams, and a sea of navy and white. The vibe is celebratory but friendly—perfect for bringing kids or first-time visitors. The crowd gets loud on key downs, and you can follow the rhythm of the game easily even if you are new to football. Between plays, the band and PA keep the energy high, and at halftime, there’s often a recognition or performance that connects the crowd to campus life.

Tailgating and Traditions

Tailgating spots around campus and the stadium fill up before kickoff, especially for conference games and the Battle of the Blue. Expect classic tailgate fares—burgers, hot dogs, barbecue, and hot drinks late in the season. You will also hear the fight song and see fans flashing the signature V sign. Villanova supporters refer to their community as “Nova Nation,” and that feeling is palpable on Saturdays in the fall.

Players, Coaches, and NFL Connections

Coaches Who Shaped the Program

Two head coaches define Villanova’s modern football arc. Andy Talley rebuilt the program after its hiatus, establishing the foundation: sound recruiting, player development, and a culture of accountability and care. Mark Ferrante, a key assistant under Talley, took over and kept the momentum going, modernizing schemes while preserving the identity that made Villanova successful. Together, they have turned Villanova into a consistent FCS presence, known for disciplined teams and strong fundamentals.

Stars You Might Know

Villanova has sent many players to the NFL. Hall of Fame defensive end Howie Long played at Villanova before starring for the Raiders. Running back Brian Westbrook, a Villanova legend, became a star with the Philadelphia Eagles and was known for his versatility and toughness. Offensive tackle Ben Ijalana was a high draft pick who played for the Colts and Jets. Defensive end Tanoh Kpassagnon developed into an NFL regular and won a Super Bowl ring with Kansas City before continuing his career in New Orleans. More recently, cornerback Christian Benford made the Buffalo Bills as a mid-round pick and quickly earned playing time in the secondary.

Villanova athletes also succeed beyond the NFL. Matt Szczur, a standout receiver and returner for the Wildcats and the Most Outstanding Player of the 2009 FCS title game, went on to play Major League Baseball and is widely respected for his well-publicized bone marrow donation that helped save a child’s life. These stories reflect the program’s broader theme: Villanova football develops talented, well-rounded people who contribute at the next level and in their communities.

Awards and Accolades

Villanova is decorated at the FCS level. Brian Westbrook won the Walter Payton Award (the FCS “Heisman”) in 2001. Quarterback John Robertson later claimed the same award, highlighting how the program has produced elite offensive talent across different eras. The Wildcats have earned numerous All-America honors, conference Player of the Year awards, and Coach of the Year recognitions, often reflecting strong seasons culminating in playoff bids and conference titles.

Schedule, Postseason, and What a “Typical” Season Looks Like

Nonconference and CAA Slate

Villanova’s schedule usually starts in early September with nonconference games. Those can be against regional FCS teams, Ivy League opponents, or an occasional FBS team. After that, the bulk of the season is CAA play, where week-to-week intensity is high and road environments can be challenging. The regular season runs into mid-to-late November.

Homecoming weekend often features a marquee game and a packed stadium, as alumni return for celebrations across campus. Expect the Delaware rivalry game to appear late in the schedule, positioning it as a meaningful matchup with potential playoff stakes.

The FCS Playoffs

At the end of the regular season, top FCS teams are selected for a 24-team playoff bracket. Automatic bids go to conference champions, and the rest are at-large selections. Villanova has made frequent appearances in this field. The playoff format is single-elimination, with rounds played on campus sites for higher seeds, culminating in a national championship game in early January. This playoff system rewards teams that finish strong and can handle cold-weather road trips and tight, high-pressure contests.

Upsets vs FBS

FCS teams visit FBS opponents each year, and Villanova has been part of that tradition, including memorable moments against regional FBS programs. In 2018, the Wildcats knocked off Temple on the road—one of the program’s recent high points outside of the FCS playoffs. These games are exciting measuring sticks, offering Villanova a chance to test its roster against larger-scholarship teams while showcasing the skill and coaching that define top-tier FCS football.

Recruiting, Scholarships, and Academics

Scholarships and Walk-ons

As an FCS program, Villanova has up to 63 scholarships to distribute among its roster. Unlike FBS, where scholarships are typically full rides, FCS programs often split scholarships into partial awards. This flexibility lets Villanova support more players and build depth across positions. Walk-ons also have a path to the roster, and the program has a track record of developing overlooked prospects into reliable contributors.

What Recruits Look For

Recruits choose Villanova for a mix of academics, athletics, and campus life. The university is highly regarded academically, with strong business, engineering, and liberal arts programs. Athletically, the Wildcats offer a nationally respected FCS team with excellent coaching stability, player development, and exposure through postseason play. The campus is close to Philadelphia, giving student-athletes access to a major sports market, internships, and cultural experiences beyond football.

Classroom Balance

Villanova emphasizes the “student” in student-athlete. Coaches and staff prioritize academic support, with structured study halls, tutoring, and academic advising. Players are expected to take rigorous coursework and graduate on time. Many alumni point to Villanova’s degree and professional network as major advantages once their playing careers end. The program’s culture teaches time management, accountability, and leadership—skills that translate beyond the field.

How to Watch, Follow, or Attend

TV and Streaming

Most CAA Football games stream through conference partners, with many matchups available on FloSports. Select games also appear on regional sports networks and national cable channels throughout the season. Digital coverage sometimes includes ESPN platforms for nonconference games or playoffs. Radio and online audio are provided through local partners and the university’s channels.

Tickets and Seating Tips

Tickets to Villanova Stadium are generally accessible and family-friendly. Big games—like the Battle of the Blue or Homecoming—can sell quickly, so it’s smart to buy early. Seating is close to the action, and even the upper sections offer good views. If you want to feel the intensity of third-down defense or red-zone plays, aim for seats near the 50-yard line or lower-bowl corners, where you can better track angles and assignments.

Best Times to Go

Early fall games offer perfect weather for first-time visitors. As the season moves into late October and November, temperatures drop, and the atmosphere becomes even more football-ready. Rivalry week and Senior Day are special dates on the calendar. If you are new to the sport, consider pairing your visit with a campus tour to experience the broader Villanova community and traditions.

FAQs About Villanova Football

Why is Villanova known more for basketball?

Villanova men’s basketball has won multiple national championships and enjoys massive national exposure every March. That success can overshadow football, especially since Villanova competes at the FCS level rather than FBS. Still, football has its own proud legacy, including a national title, and plays a central role in campus life each fall. Many fans enjoy both—basketball in the winter and football in the fall.

Does the Big East sponsor football?

No. The Big East does not sponsor football. That is why Villanova football competes in CAA Football, while most other Wildcat teams, including basketball, play in the Big East. This split is common in the Northeast, where some schools have football in one league and other sports in another.

Will Villanova move to FBS?

From time to time, fans speculate about a move to FBS. Such a jump would require major investments in stadium capacity, facilities, budgets, and conference alignment. Villanova has not made that move, and the program is well established as an FCS contender. For now, the Wildcats are focused on competing for CAA titles and deep FCS playoff runs.

Is there spring football?

Yes. Like most college programs, Villanova holds spring practices and a spring game or scrimmage. Spring is about development: teaching schemes, evaluating young players, and building depth. The coaching staff uses spring to install adjustments for the coming season and identify leaders on both sides of the ball.

Why It Matters: Football’s Place at Villanova

Football adds rhythm and connection to Villanova’s fall semester. Saturdays bring alumni back to campus, create shared memories for students, and provide a rallying point for the broader community. The team’s success at the FCS level gives fans something real to chase—conference championships, playoff seeds, and chances to reach Frisco for the national title game. It is competitive, meaningful, and very “Villanova” in tone: humble, hard-working, and team-first.

That balance also reflects the school’s broader mission. Players are encouraged to excel in class, serve the community, and grow as leaders. Villanova football produces successful alumni not just in the NFL, but in business, medicine, education, engineering, and public service. The program teaches persistence and care—values that echo throughout campus culture.

Tips for New Fans

Learn the Basics

If you are new to American football, start with the basics: four downs to gain ten yards, touchdowns worth six points, a field goal worth three, and extra points or two-point tries after touchdowns. Watch the line of scrimmage to follow the action; you will see how blocking opens lanes and how defensive fronts challenge the play. Villanova’s play style typically blends balance—mixing run and pass with an emphasis on execution.

Pick a Rivalry Game

To experience the most energy, circle the Delaware game on your calendar. Rivalry games bring out extra emotion, and the crowd’s involvement can shape momentum. If you cannot attend that one, Homecoming or a late-season CAA matchup also delivers a strong atmosphere with high stakes.

Follow a Player or Position Group

New fans often enjoy focusing on a position group—running backs, receivers, linebackers, or the offensive line. Villanova regularly features tough, smart linemen who set the tone, versatile backs who can catch and run, and defensive players who fly to the ball. Tracking one group helps you learn the game’s nuances and appreciate how each play is built.

Memorable Program Highlights

National Championship Legacy

The 2009 title is more than a banner; it is a standard. Coaches and players still reference that season as proof of what disciplined, team-first football can achieve. Many recruits hear the story during visits, and alumni recall the playoff run with pride.

Individual Honors

Brian Westbrook and John Robertson’s Walter Payton Awards show that Villanova develops top-tier offensive talent. Add in All-America nods, conference awards, and NFL draft picks, and you get a picture of a program that consistently cultivates high performers.

Signature Wins

Beyond the championship, Villanova has posted signature wins in the playoffs and against FBS opponents. Those moments energize the fan base and highlight the program’s ability to punch above its weight when necessary, a trait that defines successful FCS programs.

How Villanova Football Fits on Campus

Student Involvement

Students play a big role in the game-day scene. You will see organizations coordinating themes, resident halls attending together, and student media covering the action. The football team, in turn, participates in campus initiatives and community service, building connections beyond the stands.

Alumni and Family Ties

Football weekends are reunion time. Alumni tailgates line the lots, and families plan visits around home games. The stadium is an easy walk from academic buildings, so you can catch a pregame event, grab food on Lancaster Avenue, and be in your seat for kickoff without stress.

Traditions That Stick

From the fight song to postgame celebrations, small rituals give Villanova games their own fingerprint. The rhythm of a fall Saturday—breakfast on campus, a walk to the stadium, cheering on third down, and celebrating a win with friends—turns into a lifelong memory for many Wildcats.

The Bottom Line: Does Villanova Have a Football Team?

Yes—Villanova absolutely has a football team. The Wildcats compete in FCS within CAA Football, they have a national championship, and they produce NFL talent and academic leaders. Their home, Villanova Stadium, offers an intimate, loud, and fun game-day environment. The program is well-coached, well-respected, and woven into campus life every fall.

If you are a casual sports fan, a prospective student, or an alum who has not been back in a while, put a Villanova football game on your calendar. You will find competitive football, a welcoming community, and a tradition that stands proudly alongside the university’s celebrated basketball success.

Conclusion

Villanova does have a football team—and a good one. Rooted in history, revived with vision, and sustained by strong coaching and a supportive community, Villanova football thrives at the FCS level. From the 2009 national championship to regular playoff runs, from NFL alumni to dedicated student-athletes in the classroom, the Wildcats embody what college football can be on a vibrant campus. Whether you watch on a stream, follow along on the radio, or pack into Villanova Stadium on a crisp fall afternoon, you will experience a program that is competitive, classy, and unmistakably “Nova.”