It was the first time the sophomore had placed in a tournament.

“I think the difference between last year and this year is that he’s got a lot of confidence,” O’Connor said. “He’s making his way to maybe being an All-American.”

Practicing against a two-time All-American can only help.

“I’ve gotten so much better,” Peppelman said. “Having [O’Connor] as a partner only makes you better.”

O’Connor and Peppelman headlined an otherwise disappointing outcome for the Crimson. None of the other wrestlers won a match.

“I was hoping for more,” Weiss said. “Some guys have to make a decision about how good they want to be...Some guys have to compete at a higher level. That’s what they’re supposed to do.”

Recent injuries have also plagued Harvard’s wrestlers. Freshman Steve Keith, who owns a 7-2 record at 125 pounds, and Harvard’s top heavyweight, senior Andrew Knapp, did not compete. Keith was felled earlier in the season after rolling his ankle, and Knapp has yet to see action due to a knee injury. His backup, sophomore Spencer DeSena, is also out with bronchitis.

Considering the number of grapplers unable to compete, the Crimson may welcome a long break. Heading into reading period and exams, Harvard won’t hit the mat in a competition again until Dec. 29. But for those who remain on top of their game, the break will signal plenty of hard work.

“School comes first: we’re going to study,” Peppelman said. “When we have free time, we’re going to come in and work out once or twice a day and try to correct the mistakes we made this weekend.”

—Staff writer Christina C. McClintock can be reached at ccmcclin@fas.harvard.edu.