As Harvard faces backlash stemming from President Trump’s funding freezes, visa policies, and endowment taxes, its undefeated football team provides a rare bright spot. The Crimson, now 7-0, is enjoying its best season in ten years and aims to continue this momentum into a historic postseason for the Ivy League.
The 15th-ranked team, led by quarterback and NFL prospect Jaden Craig, is on track to win the Ivy League championship and potentially become the first Ivy League program to appear in the NCAA Football Championship Subdivision playoffs.
With the university under intense scrutiny this year, game day traditions have grown even more meaningful to supporters. Alumni see these moments as chances to demonstrate loyalty and solidarity.
“If the institution is under assault, it makes it a little more special to be here and support the place on a day like today,” said 71-year-old Ted Jadick, who led Harvard to back-to-back Ivy League titles in the 1970s.
Many international students, anxious earlier in the year about their visa status, found joy in attending their first American football game at Harvard’s Allston stadium.
Author's summary: Despite institutional setbacks, Harvard’s football success and community spirit underscore a resilient and cherished university culture in challenging times.