It certainly is not fair to blame Harvard'sfirst half offensive woes entirely on Linden. TheCrusader defense did an excellent job containingthe run, forcing more passing downs. In addition,the Crimson took several penalties that made thequarterback's job tougher. Still, at halftimeLinden was not altogether surprised by the switch.
"I kind of expected it," he said. "I knew[Wilford] was supposed to get a series anyway, andhe played so well I guess the coaches decided toleave him in the game."
After leading Harvard to glory last year,Linden has hit upon hard times the past couple ofgames. Amidst the rain, mud and muck last weekagainst Cornell, Linden completed only four passesfor 49 yards. In the home opener against Lehigh,he went 16 for 32, gaining only 113 yards, whilethrowing two interceptions.
For the season, Linden has connected only 52times on 104 tries for 476 yards. Worse, he hasthrown for just one touchdown against sixinterceptions.
In fairness, Linden has had to adjust to newprimary receivers this year; Wilske and Pattersonhave not yet reached the caliber of last year'score. Earlier in the year, he faced constantpressure from opposing defensive lines as it tooktime for the offensive line to adjust to lifewithout now-Minnesota Viking left tackle Matt Birk'98.
Despite these caveats, Linden's play has fallenfrom last year.
"I wish I could pinpoint the problem," Lindensaid. "Football is a combination of so manythings, but I do think this team is beginning togel and we have moved the ball well lately."
Until he can right himself, Linden, theunequivocal starter for Harvard over the past twoseasons, may be in jeopardy of losing his job.While Wilford has been a career backup forHarvard, Murphy may want to see if the spark hebrought to the team can continue to ignite.
Ironically, Linden started his first game forHarvard Oct. 19, 1996 against Holy Cross,replacing then junior Jay Snowden '98.
"I was pumped when [Wilford] was able to movethe ball," Linden said. "Brad and I are friendsand competitors. If there is a competition, I haveevery bit of confidence in my abilities."
Murphy still has confidence in Linden'sability, but would not confirm his startingquarterback for next week.
Out went Linden. In came Wilford. Harvard gainsa win and a dilemma. Princeton is next.