FOOTBALL '07: Offense

A significant amount of youth in the running game won’t prevent Harvard from utilizing its ground attack, but don’t be surprised to see the Crimson airing it out more than in years past. The team boasts its most experienced quarterback in three years and a group of four talented receivers with at least a year as a starter under their belts.

Quarterback

With any luck, there’ll only be one this year. If that’s the case, the Crimson should be in good shape, as senior Liam O’Hagan has more total yards than any other Ivy signal-caller through the season’s first week. With more weapons than ever at his disposal, his second full season as a starter could be one of the most productive in the league and could approach some of the all-time team passing marks.

Running Backs

Cheng Ho is entrenched as the featured back, though he’ll have to find holes behind an offensive line that starts three sophomores. Still, Ho looked comfortable during Week 1, and if defenders play the dangerous passing game honest, then Ho and newcomer Gino Gordon should have success in the running game. Also look for sophomore Mike Clarke to get some carries down the road.

Receivers/Tight Ends

The receivers are as deep, experienced, and talented a group as Harvard has seen in recent memory—perhaps ever. Led by Corey Mazza, who could break the Crimson’s all-time receiving touchdowns record this season, the group will pose a challenge to defenses. Throw in tight end Jason Miller and emerging fullback Noah Van Niel, and Liam O’Hagan has an abundance of options.