Harvard Dominates Princeton to Keep Ivy League Lead
The Crimson secured a decisive 35-7 victory against the Tigers at home in Cambridge.
Updated on Oct. 24, 2026 in Football
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Harvard improved to 6-0 overall after a convincing 35-7 win over Princeton on Saturday. The victory leaves the Crimson as the sole leader in the Ivy League standings with an undefeated 3-0 conference record.
Why it matters
The result places Harvard in a strong position atop the conference standings as the season progresses. Maintaining an unbeaten league record is essential for the Crimson in the final weeks of the competitive schedule.
Harvard held Princeton to just 219 total yards of offense while Charlie Smith threw for over 200 yards. DJ Gordon contributed 69 rushing yards on nine carries to bolster the Crimson offensive effort.
The players
Charlie Smith
He is the starting quarterback for the Harvard football team.
DJ Gordon
He is a primary running back for the Harvard Crimson.
Dorsey Benefield
He is a defensive player for Harvard who scored a fourth-quarter touchdown.
Tafari Moe
He is a receiver for Harvard who caught a touchdown pass during the game.
The details
Harvard relied on a balanced attack featuring Charlie Smith's passing and DJ Gordon's rushing to overwhelm the visitors. The Crimson defense stifled Princeton throughout the afternoon, including a fourth-quarter defensive touchdown by Dorsey Benefield.
Timeline
The game took place on October 24, 2026.
Harvard is scheduled to play Dartmouth on October 30, 2026.
Season Trajectory
This win cements Harvard as the team to beat in the Ivy League as they enter the final stretch of the schedule. The result creates separation between the Crimson and the rest of the conference as they eye a potential title run.
Harvard maintains the sole lead in the Ivy League standings at 3-0. With this win, the Crimson are positioned favorably for tie-breaker scenarios as they head into their next matchup.
The takeaway
Harvard continues to demonstrate dominance on both sides of the ball as they remain undefeated in conference play. Players and staff will now shift their focus to preparing for the road challenge against Dartmouth.
What happens next
Harvard faces Dartmouth in Hanover on October 30, 2026.
Further reading
For more on conference developments, visit the Football section.
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