Hayes tied for third in the Ivy League this season with three forced fumbles. He ranked third on the Crimson with 56 tackles and tied for first with two interceptions.

By applying consistent pressure on defense, Hayes put Harvard in a position for victory in many games this season. Facing Yale, Hayes stripped wide receiver Candler Rich during a first half Bulldog drive, allowing the Crimson to recover the fumble and score on the ensuing trek down the field. He also had key interceptions in the San Diego and Brown wins that allowed Harvard to clinch early-season victories.

Hayes will follow in the footsteps of Boyd, who served as captain this past fall. Since Hayes was named to the position, Boyd has given him some advice on assuming the role.

“He said to just remain who I am,” Hayes said. “Don’t change anything. I was elected captain for a reason. They want me to be that leader for them.”

Finishing with a 9-1 record, the Crimson earned a share of the Ivy League title. The team’s lone loss came in triple-overtime at the hands of Princeton.

The 2013 campaign has just come to a close, but Hayes is looking forward to next season with high hopes. Although he said they haven’t set out any specific models for success in planning for the future, the ultimate goal is a perfect 10-0 season.

“I can’t wait to get out there again this next season and bring back to Cambridge another Ivy League title,” Hayes said.