It's a foregone conclusion, on the other hand, that Harvard's offense with Jim Kubacki at the helm will put some points up on the board. Cornell has not had a strong defense since All-East middle linebacker Bob Lally graduated a few years back, and it's the Big Red defense that is to be held accountable for Cornell's 1-2 record thus far this season.

The Harvard offense scored 35 points on Columbia last week, and with both receiver Jimmy Curry and halfback Tommy Winn recovering from injuries, the Cornell defense should prove no obstacle to Kubacki and Co.

The Cornell game is always a pivotal game for Harvard. Last year, and the year before, Harvard had tough, hard-fought games with the Big Red, and victories both years established the Crimson as Ivy League contenders.

'A Turning Point'

"The Cornell game always seems to be a turning point for us," said Newhouse. "We get off to slow starts early in the year, but then really seem to put it all together against Cornell. A big win against them always puts us in a good frame of mind for Dartmouth the following week, and really sends us on our way."

Harvard traditionally has had tough luck in Ithaca. Harvard won a close one two years ago, 21-15, but in its last five appearances in the pastures has managed only a 2-2-1 record.

So whether Harvard will be a legitimate Ivy contender or be in for a long, long season, should become manifest out in farm country today. But to be honest with you, I'll be at Fenway this weekend.