Yale quarterback Dante Reno had a performance on Saturday he’ll never forget, for many reasons.
Reno threw for 298 yards and four touchdown passes in a come-from-behind win over Merrimack. The game happened one day after Yale announced the passing of former football head coach Tony Reno, who was Dante’s father.
“This one’s for you pops,” Dante Reno said on Twitter.
Merrimack led Yale 21-7 in the second quarter. Fueled by Dante Reno’s performance, the Bulldogs outscored Merrimack 34-3 to win the game.
Tony Reno, who coached his son in 2025, stepped down in February 2026, citing health reasons. Tony Reno won the second-most games in Yale history, with 83. He coached Yale from 2012 through 2025, winning five Ivy League titles.
“Dad, you are my role model, my best friend and my coach,” Dante Reno wrote when his father stepped down. “I love you so much. The last 15 years you have been the best head coach I have ever seen. From your first year to playing with you last year, you have put your heart and soul into coaching. Your legacy will last forever.”
Tony Reno was 52 years old.
