Around the Ivy: A look at HARVARD

HARVARD

Last year: 8-2 (5-2)

About the Crimson: The Crimson lost several key pieces from a team that boasted the highest scoring offense in league history.

“It is going to be an interesting year for Harvard football,” coach Tim Murphy said. “We feel like we have the potential to be another very solid football team, but we have quite a few question marks on offense. On one hand, we had one of the most explosive offenses we've had here – the highest-scoring offense in Ivy League history, but lose five unbelievable players that are practically irreplaceable.”

It should be a competitive camp at quarterback for Harvard. Murphy said Conner Hempel is the No. 1 right now with Mike Pruneau a very close No. 2. Murphy said they are carbon copies of one another. Both are 6-3, 212-pound juniors, who are good athletes with the ability to make all the throws. They will look to replace Colton Chapple, last year’s Ivy League Offensive Player of the Year.

Harvard also TE Cam Brate, who has received preseason All-America accolades.

For now, the Crimson will rely on its defense.

“I think our defense right now is the strength of our team,” Murphy said. “In terms of experience, in terms of leadership and maybe personnel .”

Despite its losses, Harvard still has plenty of talent and will be a contender. This year will mark the 130th edition of The Game on Nov. 23. The game will be Yale’s 600th at the Yale Bowl.