Harvard had opportunities to win both contests on last-second field goal attempts that were subsequently off the mark.

While there are numerous reasons for the inability to hold off opponents in the fourth quarter, Rose cannot be faulted. The headstrong quarterback has put his team in position to win every Ivy game this year. Though he is disappointed the team will not be wearing championship rings this season, Rose believes the team is much improved from past years and has the talent to win the league title next season.

"I've never been a part of a team that plays together as well as we do," Rose said. "We've had some unfortunate losses, but I'm really proud of the guys. We're a young team, and we should be better next year. Already, our defense has come together and our running game is currently the best in the league."

Nevertheless, it is the passing game that has earned the attention of Harvard's opponents this season. Confident and savvy on the field, Rose has thrown for an average of 323.9 yards per game in those he has started.

Additionally, when the passing game runs on all cylinders, running backs Nick Palazzo and Matt Leiszler can run through opposing defenses. For the year, the two backs have combined for 1,125 yards on the ground, tops in the Ivy League.

"I think Neil has done an amazing job this year," Palazzo said. "He has been a great leader and is a big reason why we have enjoyed a lot of success on offense this season. I can't say enough about how hard he plays and how hard he works. He has done everything a quarterback needs to do to help his team win."

Rose grew up in Mililani, Hawaii. He picked up football in the ninth grade, playing backup quarterback and defensive back. Although Rose won the starting job as junior, his high school experience was extremely uncommon for a Division I college starter.