The Morris-Gessner showdown highlights what is predicted to be an evenly matched contest.
Offensively, the Crimson boasts a potent attack led by Rose, Morris, sophomore wide receiver Rodney Byrnes, and senior running back Nick Palazzo. Brown will most likely focus much of its attention on Morris, but this provides the Crimson with an opportunity to look elsewhere for offense.
“Our passing scheme is predicated on getting the ball to the open receiver, whoever that may be,” Murphy said.
The Crimson will look for its defensive intensity to start up front, where it will need to pressure Slager before he can find open options.
“We need to get a lot of pressure on their quarterback,” said junior lineman Mike Armstrong. “It will have a big effect on the game. They have an All-American receiver, and if their quarterback is on the ground, he can’t get the ball downfield.”
If Armstrong has his way and Slager spends much of tomorrow afternoon eating dirt, then Harvard will be well on its way to overcoming the first obstacle in its quest to repeat as Ivy League champions.