The winner of the annual Delaware-Villanova rivalry game takes home the Battle of the Blue Trophy. The two teams first met on the football field in 1895. However, the rivalry didn’t become a regular fixture until the 1960s. The Wildcats hold a 28-21-1 record in the all-time series, and you won’t want to miss it when the Wildcats try to extend their lead.

Mayor’s Cup

Rival Team: Temple Owls

Only 15 miles separate Temple and Villanova meaning you’ll find a lot of fans of both teams when these two-Philadelphia area teams meet. The rivalry between Temple and Villanova began in 1928, and you’ll be in for a good matchup whenever these two square off. The all-time series is tied at 15-15-2, so don’t miss it when the Wildcats take on the Owls.

Villanova Wildcats Tailgate Guide

Atmosphere

Villanova may not be renown for its tailgating, but that doesn’t mean you won’t have a great time tailgating before a Wildcats game. In recent years, Villanova has made great strides when it comes to tailgating in large part thanks to the efforts of the Villanova Football Club. Tailgating here has really kicked up making it a must do when attending any Wildcats football game.

Lots A-1 and A-2 are where you’ll find the majority of the action on game days, so even if you don’t have a parking pass for either of these lots stop by and take part in the festivities. Everyone here is very friendly and happy to help spread the tailgating cheer surrounding Villanova football.

You’ll also want to keep an eye and ear out for spirit group performances before the game as they’re a fun part of the pregame festivities.

Tailgating is a can’t-miss part of any Wildcats game, so arrive early and enjoy all the pregame festivities outside Villanova Stadium.

Traditions

Band and Spirit Group Performances

Don’t miss performances by the band and spirit groups while tailgating at Villanova. The performances get everyone into the Wildcats game day spirit and are a fun way to get hyped up for the game.

Where to tailgate

A-1 and A-2 Parking Lots

If you want to check out some of the best tailgates at Villanova, then head over to these two lots before the game. Here you’ll find the biggest and best tailgates on Saturdays, and at a few games these are the only lots tailgating is allowed. Reserve a spot in one of these lots for a fun day of tailgating before the game.

S-5 Parking Lot

For some of the bigger games, like homecoming, tailgating is also allowed in the S-5 Parking Lot. If you’re attending one of those games and you can’t get a spot in A-1 or A-2, then set up shop here.

Villanova Wildcats Stadium Guide

In Game

You won’t mistake a Villanova game for an LSU game anytime soon. However, you’ll still find a fun atmosphere inside Villanova Stadium.

Fans pack the stands to show their support for the Wildcats and all throughout the game you’ll hear them cheering on ‘Nova. The fans here live and die with this team creating a fun atmosphere that while it can’t rival the one found in The Pavilion during basketball season is still a fun one to be a part of. Come prepared to cheer on the Wildcats as one of the best things about attending a Villanova football game is the camaraderie and sense of belonging among fans.

In addition to the atmosphere of the crowd, you’ll also enjoy the performances of the Villanova Band, Will D. Cat, and the cheerleaders. All three put on fantastic shows throughout the game making them can’t-miss parts of any Wildcats game.

Finally, if you get into the stadium early, stop by and see the statue of legendary Villanova track coach James Jumbo Elliott. The statue does an excellent job of honoring the fantastic coach and is a must-see for any longtime Wildcats fan.

A trip to Villanova is a pleasant trip for any FCS football fan, so start planning your visit to Villanova today.

Things to check out

James Jumbo Elliott Statue

Make sure to check out the statue of legendary Villanova track coach Jumbo Elliott. The statue is a must-see for any longtime ‘Nova athletics fan, so don’t miss it during your trip to Villanova Stadium.

Kids Area

If you’re taking the kids to the game, then make sure to stop by the kids area near the fieldhouse. Here you’ll find all kinds of kids activities including football related games, so stop by and check it out.

Will D. Cat

Will D. Cat is the official mascot of the Villanova Wildcats and can be seen at every ‘Nova football game. He gets into all kinds of antics and is loved by fans, so keep your eyes peeled for Will D. Cat at the game.

Villanova Band

The Villanova Band does an excellent job of creating an intense in-game atmosphere. The band kicks things off before the game with their pregame show. After that, they keep the tempo high by instructing fans when to perform specific chants. The Villanova Band is a big part of any Villanova football game, so enjoy their performance.

Cheerleaders

Like the Villanova Band, the Villanova cheerleaders are also an integral part of the in-game experience. The cheerleaders lead the crowd in a variety of cheers, so make sure to join in the cheers and aid the Wildcats in their quest for victory.

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