But I have no idea whether the Crimson will win the Ivy League. Last season felt like a foregone conclusion; this season feels like a grind.
The offensive line is banged up, missing a couple of opening-day starters; already the unit faced the challenge of replacing three All-Ivy seniors. Against the Crusaders, Harvard allowed six sacks and three backfield tackles that led to fumbles. Collectively the visitors rushed for 29 yards on 26 carries.
On special teams, the Crimson has struggled on coverage. Holy Cross speedster Jake Wieczorek racked up a 39-yard kickoff return and a 21-yard punt return on Saturday. Overall Harvard ranks sixth in the Ancient Eight in opponents’ kickoff return average and seventh in opponents’ punt return average.
At times, tough defensive play has compensated for other shortcomings. But weaknesses threaten this unit, too.
Ever since Penn wide receiver Justin Watson broke for a spirit-crushing, 79-yard sweep last November, the Crimson has struggled to stop sideline plays. In an earlier win over Georgetown, Harvard conceded two long touchdowns on a quick screen and fly sweep; in the fourth quarter of Saturday’s contest, the Crimson let up a 36-yard rush to the outside, eventually allowing the Crusaders to build a two-score lead.
The middle of the secondary has also proven vulnerable, as Cornell quarterback Dalton Banks and Holy Cross quarterback Geoff Wade have sent long balls over the top. Generally the squadron of defensive backs and safeties has exceeded expectations, playing with verve and intelligence. But the long completions hurt.
Make no mistake—a healthy Harvard team possesses immense talent. Firkser and Shelton-Mosley look like high school kids playing in a peewee league; Viviano can really fling the ball; linebacker play improves each week; and despite the praise of opposing coaches, the defensive line remains shamefully underrated.
And again, the greatest cause for hope is that this team has “grit.” The 2016 Crimson won’t give up without a fight.
So far no game in 2016 carries more implications than the upcoming Princeton matchup. The Tigers are talented, motivated, and a serious dark horse to win the Ivy League. Last week they manhandled a Brown team that had hung tough with Harvard in week two.
If the Crimson cruises to victory on Saturday, then I’ll gladly shut up. But something in me senses that a battle looms. Already I can hear the crunch of footsteps and see the glint of helmets.
Harvard players aren’t used to losing—fair enough. On Saturday we’ll see whether they know how to win.
—Staff writer Sam Danello can be reached at sam.danello@thecrimson.com.