No. 24 Harvard Football Gears Up for Crucial Ivy League Match Against Columbia

As the Ivy League football season enters its final stretch, the newly-ranked No. 24 Harvard Crimson is set to face off against the Columbia Lions in a pivotal match on Saturday, November 9. Harvard, with a 6-1 overall record and 3-1 in the Ivy League, is looking to solidify its position as a top contender for the Ivy League title.

The Crimson is coming off a thrilling 31-27 victory over previously undefeated Dartmouth, a win that highlighted the team’s resilience and depth. Key players such as junior wide receiver Cooper Barkate and senior utilityman Charles DePrima have stepped up in the absence of injured running back Shane McLaughlin, who is “very close” to returning to the field after a three-game hiatus due to a leg injury.

Defensively, Harvard is bolstered by junior safety Ty Bartrum, the reigning Ivy League Defensive Player of the Week, who recorded a career-high 16 tackles against Dartmouth. Despite an injured thumb, Bartrum is expected to play a crucial role in the game against Columbia.

Special teams will also be under scrutiny, particularly freshman kicker Kieran Corr, who has been largely untested this season but has shown consistency in extra point attempts. Coach Andrew Aurich’s strategy of going for it on fourth down, with a 70% conversion rate, has limited Corr’s field goal attempts but reflects the team’s analytical approach to the game.

The match against Columbia is critical for Harvard’s chances of winning a share of the Ivy League title. With both teams having identical 3-1 Ivy League records, the outcome will significantly impact the league standings. Coach Aurich’s confidence in his team’s ability to perform under pressure will be tested as Harvard aims to maintain its momentum[4]).