The two-game series between Harvard and McGill (the teams played to a 0-0 draw on May 15, 1874) is considered a seminal event in the evolution of football codes in the U.S.
The opening contest was played by “Boston Game” rules, with a round ball that was kicked, soccer-style, but could also be carried and passed. The second game used McGill’s oval ball, which could be carried, the rules resembling rugby.
https://www.mcgill.ca/channels/news/date-history-first-football-game-was-may-14-1874-106694
http://www.thecrimson.com/article/1968/3/13/the-history-of-harvard-sports-piduring/
TODAY IN NEW ENGLAND SOCCER HISTORY