The late 19th century marked the golden age of Princeton football. The team, often referred to as the Orange and Black, amassed a record of success that is unparalleled in the sport's history. Coaches like William Reid and Pop Warner led teams that were virtually unbeatable. Although there was no official national championship at the time, Princeton's consistent dominance and the caliber of opponents they defeated have led many historians to consider this era as their unofficial championship years.
The early 20th century saw a continuation of Princeton's football prowess. The team consistently ranked among the nation's elite, competing against the likes of Harvard, Yale, and Penn in what was known as the Ivy League rivalry. While the competition intensified, Princeton continued to produce exceptional talent and achieve remarkable victories.
It's important to note that determining an exact number of national championships for Princeton, or any team from that era, is challenging due to the lack of a formal selection process. However, based on the team's performance, strength of schedule, and overall dominance, it's widely accepted that Princeton laid claim to multiple national championships, particularly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
While the landscape of college football has changed dramatically since Princeton's heyday, the program's rich history continues to inspire and influence the sport. The tradition of excellence established by these early teams has left an enduring legacy and serves as a reminder of Princeton's unparalleled contributions to the game.
While there is no definitive list of national championships awarded to Princeton during this era, the team's consistent dominance and the respect they commanded among their peers solidify their place as one of college football's all-time great programs.
The Tigers themselves claim 28 National titles: (1869, 1870, 1872, 1873, 1874, 1875, 1877, 1878, 1879, 1880, 1881, 1884, 1885, 1886, 1889, 1893, 1894, 1896, 1898, 1899, 1903, 1906, 1911, 1920, 1922, 1933, 1935, 1950)
