40 Facts About Youngstown State Vs. Towson

Youngstown State and Towson: A Brief Overview

Youngstown State University (YSU) and Towson University are two institutions with rich histories and competitive sports programs. Their football teams, in particular, have garnered attention over the years. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about these two universities and their football rivalry.

Historical Background

Understanding the history of these universities provides context for their sports programs and rivalries.

1. Youngstown State University was founded in 1908. Initially named the Youngstown Association School, it became Youngstown College in 1921 and finally Youngstown State University in 1967.

2. Towson University was established in 1866. Originally called the Maryland State Normal School, it was created to train teachers. It became Towson State University in 1976 and simply Towson University in 1997.

3. YSU's mascot is Pete the Penguin. The penguin mascot was adopted in 1933 after a particularly cold game, symbolizing the team's resilience.

4. Towson's mascot is Doc the Tiger. The tiger mascot represents strength and determination, qualities the university values in its students and athletes.

Football Programs

Both universities have strong football traditions, with notable achievements and memorable moments.

5. Youngstown State's football team is known as the Penguins. They have a storied history in NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS).

6. Towson's football team is called the Tigers. They also compete in the NCAA Division I FCS, making them direct competitors with YSU.

7. YSU has won four national championships. These titles came in 1991, 1993, 1994, and 1997 under the leadership of coach Jim Tressel.

8. Towson reached the FCS National Championship game in 2013. Although they lost to North Dakota State, it was a significant achievement for the program.

9. Jim Tressel, a legendary coach, led YSU to its national titles. He later became the head coach at Ohio State University, where he won a national championship in 2002.

10. Rob Ambrose has been Towson's head coach since 2009. Under his leadership, the Tigers have seen a resurgence in their football program.

Memorable Games

Certain games between YSU and Towson stand out for their intensity and significance.

11. The first meeting between YSU and Towson was in 1987. YSU won that game 31-0, setting the tone for future encounters.

12. In 2013, Towson defeated YSU 35-31. This game was a nail-biter, with Towson scoring the winning touchdown in the final minutes.

13. YSU and Towson have faced each other six times. YSU leads the series with four wins to Towson's two.

14. The 2011 game was a defensive battle. YSU won 28-21, with both teams showcasing strong defensive plays.

15. In 2016, YSU won a thrilling overtime game. The final score was 40-38, with YSU scoring a touchdown in overtime to secure the victory.

Notable Players

Both universities have produced talented players who have made significant impacts on and off the field.

16. Ron Jaworski, a former NFL quarterback, played for YSU. He had a successful career in the NFL and is now a football analyst.

17. Jermon Bushrod, a former NFL offensive lineman, played for Towson. He won a Super Bowl with the New Orleans Saints in 2010.

18. Bo Pelini, a former YSU head coach, played college football at Ohio State. He later became the head coach at Nebraska before coaching at YSU.

19. Terrance West, a former Towson running back, had a successful NFL career. He played for the Cleveland Browns, Baltimore Ravens, and New Orleans Saints.

20. YSU's Marcus Mason was a standout running back. He led the FCS in rushing yards in 2006 and had a brief NFL career.

Academic Achievements

Beyond sports, both universities excel in academics and contribute significantly to their communities.

21. YSU offers over 115 undergraduate programs. These range from engineering to the arts, providing diverse opportunities for students.

22. Towson offers more than 60 undergraduate majors. The university is known for its strong programs in education, business, and health professions.

23. YSU's Williamson College of Business Administration is highly regarded. It provides students with practical experience and strong industry connections.

24. Towson's College of Education is one of the largest in Maryland. It has a long history of training teachers and educational leaders.

25. YSU has a student-to-faculty ratio of 14:1. This allows for personalized attention and support for students.

26. Towson has a student-to-faculty ratio of 17:1. This fosters a collaborative and engaging learning environment.

Community Impact

Both universities play vital roles in their local communities, contributing to economic development and cultural enrichment.

27. YSU is a major economic driver in Youngstown, Ohio. The university generates significant economic activity and provides numerous jobs.

28. Towson is a key institution in Baltimore County, Maryland. It contributes to the local economy and offers cultural and educational programs for the community.

29. YSU's Dana School of Music is renowned. It offers performances and educational programs that enrich the cultural life of the region.

30. Towson's Center for the Arts is a cultural hub. It hosts performances, exhibitions, and educational programs for the community.

Future Prospects

Looking ahead, both universities have ambitious plans for growth and development.

31. YSU is expanding its research capabilities. The university is investing in new facilities and programs to enhance its research output.

32. Towson is growing its campus infrastructure. New buildings and facilities are being constructed to accommodate the increasing student population.

33. YSU is focusing on sustainability initiatives. The university is implementing green practices and promoting environmental awareness.

34. Towson is enhancing its online education offerings. The university is expanding its online programs to reach more students.

35. YSU is strengthening its community partnerships. The university is collaborating with local organizations to address regional challenges.

36. Towson is increasing its global engagement. The university is developing international partnerships and study abroad opportunities.

Fun Facts

Some quirky and fun facts about YSU and Towson add color to their histories.

37. YSU's marching band is called the "Marching Pride." They perform at football games and other events, showcasing their musical talent.

38. Towson's mascot, Doc the Tiger, has his own Twitter account. He engages with fans and shares updates about the university.

39. YSU's campus features a statue of Pete the Penguin. Students often take photos with the statue for good luck before exams.

40. Towson's campus has a tiger statue. It is a popular spot for students to take photos and show their school spirit.

The Final Whistle

Youngstown State vs. Towson isn't just another game; it's a clash of history, talent, and passion. From the Penguins' icy resolve to the Tigers' fierce determination, every match-up brings something special. Fans get to witness thrilling plays, unexpected upsets, and unforgettable moments. Whether you're rooting for Youngstown State's storied legacy or Towson's rising prowess, there's no denying the excitement this rivalry brings. So, next time these teams face off, remember the rich history and the countless stories that make this game more than just a score on a board. It's about pride, tradition, and the love of the game. Keep an eye out for the next showdown; you won't want to miss it!