This game will be the first chance for Harvard's offense to prove that it can be as explosive as it was last year. Linden, who had the second-most passing yards and touchdowns in school history last season, had three touchdown passes against Columbia in last year's opener. He has mastered Murphy's offense, and Harvard hopes that translates into continued success despite unproven receivers.

Junior running back Chris Menick, who set single-season rushing yardage and touchdown records last year, should once again be the offense's main weapon. During the preseason, he faced the prospect of splitting time with senior Troy Jones, who rushed for 100 yards and two touchdowns against Columbia last year, but Jones broke his arm in a preseason scrimmage and is out for the year.

Junior fullback Damon Jones, who also scored against the Lions, has undergone season-ending surgery. Sophomore Grady Smalling gets his first start.

The game is also the first start for sophomore left tackle Mike Clare, who is replacing Minnesota Viking Matt Birk.

If Harvard's offense has been paying attention during practice, it should be able to adjust to Columbia's new defensive scheme. Columbia is installing a version of Harvard's attacking eight-man front defense.

As for homefield advantage, Columbia plays on Baker Field, which has artificial turf. Harvard does not play on turf very often but won at Cornell 34-9 last year. The Crimson has practiced at Boston University's astroturf field this week.

"Two years ago, I might have been worried because of our team speed," Murphy said. "It's not that much of a problem now."

FOOTBALL GAME PREVIEW

HARVARD

(0-0) Ivy, (0-0) Overall

Head Coach: Tim Murphy

Captain: Brendan Bibro

Site: Baker Field

Kickoff: 1:30 p.m.

On Radio: WHRB 94.5 FM