NEW HAVEN, Conn. – It was a historic year for Team 152 and the Yale Football program as they closed a landmark chapter in both program and Ivy League history.
The Bulldogs defeated Harvard to claim the Ivy League title and the conference's first-ever automatic bid into the NCAA FCS Playoffs. In a year full of firsts, they also won their first-ever playoff game. Yale mounted a dramatic comeback against No. 15 Youngstown State, scoring 29 unanswered points after trailing 35-7 at halftime to secure the victory in the first round.
Turning the page to a new season, the Bulldogs announced defensive back Abu Kamara as captain of Team 153.
"What a significant season this has been for Yale and for the Ivy League. I'm honored to be named captain of Team 153 and excited to begin this journey. We have elevated the standard and will continue striving toward even greater heights," said Kamara. "As a kid from Philadelphia, becoming captain of such a historic program is something I never could have imagined. I hope to set a standard for young student-athletes from my neighborhood to follow."
Following another outstanding season, Kamara was unanimously voted the Asa S. Bushnell Defensive Player of the Year. He finished the regular season with 65 total tackles with 32 solo, 6.0 tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, a forced fumble, three fumble recoveries, two interceptions, eight pass breakups, and a blocked kick. He also scored two defensive touchdowns, one on an interception return and the other on a fumble recovery.
"I'm excited for Abu and what his leadership brings to Team 153," said Tony Reno, Joel E. Smilow '54 Head Coach. "He is a competitor in every sense of the word. He prepares with purpose, plays with toughness, and carries himself with a standard that has earned the full trust of this team. His presence elevates the people around him. His leadership will strengthen the foundation of Yale Football both on and off the field."
Kamara's accolades also include being a two-time finalist for the Buck Buchanan Award, a 2024 AP Honorable Mention All-American, and a two-time New England Football Writers Association All-New England team honoree.
