Pennsylvania is home to several renowned colleges with strong football programs. These institutions combine academic excellence with a passion for college football, offering students and fans an exciting experience both on and off the field. From NCAA Division I powerhouses to competitive Division II and Division III teams, there’s a football college in Pennsylvania to suit every athlete and enthusiast.
1. Pennsylvania State University (Penn State)
Location: State College, Pennsylvania
Description: Penn State, often referred to as “Linebacker U,” has a storied football tradition. The Nittany Lions compete in the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) and are members of the Big Ten Conference. With a capacity of over 100,000, Beaver Stadium comes alive on game days, creating an electric atmosphere for fans and athletes alike.
2. University of Pittsburgh (Pitt)
Location: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Description: The University of Pittsburgh, commonly known as Pitt, fields the Panthers football team. Competing in the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) and the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), Pitt has a proud football history with multiple conference championships and notable NFL alumni. Heinz Field serves as their home stadium, offering a great game-day experience.
3. Villanova University
Location: Villanova, Pennsylvania
Description: Villanova’s football program, known as the Wildcats, competes in the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) as a member of the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA). While basketball may dominate the spotlight, Villanova football has its share of success and dedicated fans, contributing to the vibrant college sports scene at the university.
4. Temple University
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Description: Temple University, located in Philadelphia, boasts the Owls football team. The Owls compete in the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) and are members of the American Athletic Conference (AAC). With a growing reputation and a passionate fan base, Temple football games offer thrilling moments for all spectators.
5. Bucknell University
Location: Lewisburg, Pennsylvania
Description: Bucknell’s Bison football team competes in the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) as part of the Patriot League. Known for their commitment to academics and athletics, Bucknell football provides a well-rounded college experience for student-athletes and fans alike.
6. Lehigh University
Location: Bethlehem, Pennsylvania=
Description: Lehigh’s Mountain Hawks football team competes in the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) as a member of the Patriot League. The university’s football program has a rich history of intense rivalries and competitive games, making it an integral part of the campus culture.
7. Shippensburg University
Location: Shippensburg, Pennsylvania
Description: Shippensburg’s football team, the Raiders, competes in the NCAA Division II as part of the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC). Although Division II, Shippensburg football offers an excellent platform for talented student-athletes to excel both academically and athletically.
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