Although the annual rivalry between IUP and Cal U has existed for more than 100 years, the Coal Bowl series started during the 2009 season. In those 15 meetings, the Vulcans own the edge in the series with ten wins to IUP's five. After early dominance in the series by Cal U, the Crimson Hawks have won five of the last eleven meetings dating back to the 2013 season. IUP is 4-4 at home in the series while the Vulcans are 6-1 at home.
Unfortunately, due to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the 12th annual edition of the series was not played after the PSAC canceled the regular seasons and championships for fall sports. The 12th annual Coal Bowl was eventually played in October of 2021.
