But constructive criticism and high expectations are not his only forms of motivation—each year, he derives creative techniques to inspire his players.
Realizing that the opportunities to distinguish oneself—especially statistically—are few and far between for a lineman, Turner this year established the “Nastiest O-Lineman in the Country of the Week” award, each week presented to the best-performing and “meanest” Harvard lineman. He keeps a special tape of some of the most vicious plays, and uses the tape as motivation for all players.
“There really are times when you’re out there on that field, and it comes into your mind that you can make a play that can go on that tape,” Torinus says. “Honestly, when you’re in a situation like that, you get the extra motivation to take that next step and really finish your man off.”
Ultimately, Turner succeeds because he respects his players, and treats them like professionals. The mutual admiration between him and the members of the line fosters a situation conducive to success.
But despite all the players’ praise, Turner goes out of his way to deflect any commendation for the line’s performance.
“Give those guys all the credit,” he says. “The kids on this team right here are as unselfish a group of players as you’re going to get, and that’s why they succeed.”
And unselfish they are. Despite receiving a disproportionately small amount of credit for the Crimson’s success, they remain satisfied.
“If Neil has a good day, Carl has a good day, or Nicky P [Palazzo] has a good day, you know that you did a good job, just because they did so well,” says Soriano. “We all benefit from each other.”
And while their contributions may go largely unnoticed by many Harvard fans and in these pages, the same cannot be said for NFL scouts. Soriano and Jack Fadule, both imposing senior tackles, have drawn significant attention from multiple professional teams. Some have even suggested that the 6’4, 300-pound Soriano may be selected higher in this spring’s league entry draft than highly touted All-American receiver and Payton Award candidate Morris.
As far as Rose is concerned, it is due praise for his personal guardians.
“If the line is giving me time in the pocket, I know that we are going to win,” he says. “They allow me to do my job instead of worrying about protection.”
So if the Crimson’s big-name stars prevail this weekend to secure the team’s second straight Ivy title, they will do so because they have been standing on the shoulders of giants—or at least running behind them.