The Lions failed to convert on these prime scoring chances on flipped fields, and this extended to a prolonged drought, allowing the Crimson to claw back into the game.

For a stretch of 43:08 between the first and fourth quarters, the Crimson blanked Columbia.

Juniors Cole Thompson and Charlie Walker also picked off Hill. These turnovers invigorated a Harvard offense that appeared shaky at times. Each interception gave Viviano a short field at the Lions’ 27, and Viviano pushed Harvard into the end zone on each drive.

If the Crimson’s defense continues to play with such poise and an evident sense of urgency, Harvard has a prime opportunity to enter the Yale Bowl with a shot at the league title. Let’s not completely neglect the offense, though. To be successful, the Crimson also needs junior running back Charlie Walker to complement the passing attack, and the passers need to limit turnovers as much as possible.

I’ll conclude with a revised prediction: If the Crimson is to compete in meaningful games over the next two weeks, look for Viviano and Smith to share the limelight, both between themselves and with the rest of the squad.

—Staff writer Jack Stockless can be reached at jack.stockless@thecrimson.com.