Harvard Prepares for Challenging Saturday Matchup Against Dartmouth
After a decisive victory against the Princeton Tigers, the No. 12 Harvard Crimson (6-0, 3-0 Ivy) gears up for a significant showdown with the Dartmouth Big Green (5-1, 2-1) this Saturday. Both teams are vying for control in the Ivy League, with Harvard currently ranked at the top.
Importance of the Matchup
A win for Harvard would solidify their position at the top of the standings and keep their aspirations for a sole Ivy League title in check. Head Coach Andrew Aurich emphasized the importance of treating each game as crucial. “The only way you control your own fate is by continuing to go 1-0 every week,” said Aurich.
Upcoming FCS Playoffs
In 25 days, the FCS Championship Committee will announce its field for the 2025 FCS Playoffs. For the first time, the Ivy League will secure an automatic bid. With a shorter season and easier non-conference schedules, Harvard must win consistently to guarantee postseason play.
Current Rankings and Performance
Harvard is presently ranked No. 12 in the media poll and No. 15 in the coaches’ poll. Securing a top-eight seed would provide a crucial first-round bye, while a ranking between ninth and sixteenth would ensure a home game in the playoffs.
- Total offense: 11th in the nation
- Total defense: 2nd in the nation
- Turnover margin: 5th in the nation
- SP+ metric ranking: 4th in FCS
Senior quarterback Jaden Craig leads the offense, showcasing impressive stats with total passing yards and a strong touchdown-to-interception ratio. Despite the loss of top receiver Cooper Barkate to Duke, Craig has thrived, receiving support from a diverse group of Crimson receivers.
Defensive Strengths
Harvard’s defense has been formidable, allowing only ten second-half points in the last three games. The defensive unit, spearheaded by captain Ty Bartrum and senior defensive end Alex DeGrieck, has limited opponents to an average of 255 yards per game—the fewest in the Ivy League.
Challenges Ahead Against Dartmouth
Dartmouth poses a significant challenge despite not being ranked in the FCS polls. Last week, they dominated Columbia with a 46-point victory, demonstrating their offensive and defensive prowess. Senior running back D.J. Crowther leads their attack, averaging 95 rushing yards per game.
- Top 3 in league for offensive efficiency
- Senior linebacker Zyion Freer-Brown: 50 tackles and 3.5 tackles for loss
Last season, Harvard narrowly defeated Dartmouth in a close match. As the two-time reigning champions, Harvard anticipates a fierce battle as other Ivy teams bring their strongest effort against them. Coach Aurich is ready for the challenge, stating, “Every time we play an Ivy League school, those players wanted to be at Harvard.”
