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Last Saturday at Harvard Stadium, the Crimson added another win to the season’s record, going up to 5-0 (2-0 Ivy) with a commanding 31–7 victory over in-state rival Merrimack. The win propelled Harvard up the national rankings, climbing to No. 14 in the Stats Perform poll and No. 17 in the FCS Coaches Top 25.

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Sophomore wide receiver Brady Blackburn secures a 46-yard strike from senior quarterback Jaden Craig, showcasing his deep-threat ability down the sideline. Blackburn notched his third straight 100-yard performance, hauling in four receptions for 110 yards.

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On just eight carries, sophomore quarterback DJ Gordon delivered a breakout performance, rushing for 104 yards and scoring on both 19-yard and 24-yard touchdown runs that reignited the Crimson offense and kept Harvard in full control.

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Gordon was grabbed by the facemask at the 9-yard line on his 24-yard touchdown run, prompting flags from nearly every official on the field. Gordon powered through the contact, dragging the defender into the end zone and scoring a statement.

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Senior captain Ty Bartrum closes in to break up a pass, showcasing his leadership and defensive awareness in the Crimson secondary.

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On the final play of the first half, sophomore defensive back Xaden Benson intercepts Merrimack’s Hail Mary attempt and returns it to the 46-yard line, halting the Warriors’ late chance to score and sending the Crimson into halftime with momentum.

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Senior wide receiver Dean Boyd battled to reel in a pass from Craig during a drive that got the Merrimack defense flagged once for holding and twice for pass interference.

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Craig showcased greater mobility in this matchup, building on his rushing touchdown from the previous week against Cornell. He ran to extend plays while throwing for 305 yards and scoring a touchdown to lead the Crimson offense.

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A wide-open senior tight end Ryan Osborne hauled in the first touchdown of the game, capping off a well-executed Crimson drive that set the tone early for Harvard’s dominant performance.

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The Harvard defense continued stellar form, applying relentless pressure throughout the game and solidifying its standing as second in the FCS in total defense.

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Junior tight end Seamus Gilmartin was a steady target in the passing game, succeeding in seven receptions for 53 yards and helping sustain multiple Crimson drives with his reliable hands and route-running.

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During a timeout, Harvard students took part in a lighthearted race against Sasha, the HUPD’s beloved community engagement dog. Sasha easily claimed victory to the crowd’s delight.

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Harvard’s special teams unit launches an effort to block an extra point. The Crimson has been nearly impenetrable this season, holding opponents to just 11 points per game — the second-best mark in the nation.