Brown’s football team emerged victorious against Harvard with a thrilling comeback during their recent game. Jake Willcox and Mark Mahoney showcased exceptional teamwork by connecting on two fourth-quarter touchdowns, with the final one being secured with only 21 seconds left on the clock. This win marked the end of Brown’s 12-game losing streak against Harvard, with their last victory in the series dating back to 2010 when they triumphed in the first-ever night game at Brown Stadium.
Despite trailing 28-23, Brown managed to force a critical turnover near midfield with 2:32 remaining in the fourth quarter. However, after turning the ball over on downs deep in their territory, Harvard attempted a field goal in the closing minutes. The game took a dramatic turn when Harvard’s first field goal attempt of the season went awry due to a high snap, allowing Brown to seize the opportunity and advance to the Crimson’s 27-yard line with 28 seconds left on the clock.
Mark Mahoney’s remarkable juggling catch in the end zone with just 21 seconds remaining propelled Brown into their first lead of the game at 29-28. Adding to the excitement, Mahoney also secured a crucial 2-point conversion by outjumping a defender, extending Brown’s lead to three points. Despite Harvard’s efforts to push towards midfield in the final moments, a thwarted lateral pass attempt ended their chances as jubilant fans flooded the field to celebrate Brown’s remarkable comeback victory.
Quarterback Jake Willcox demonstrated an outstanding performance by completing 21 of 37 passes for 288 yards and three touchdowns for Brown, who maintained their undefeated record of 2-0. On the opposing side, Jaden Craig of Harvard completed 178 passing yards, with two touchdown passes going to Cooper Barkate, resulting in Harvard’s first loss of the season, bringing their record to 1-1.
The game witnessed a tense moment during a reviewed play in the fourth quarter, where it initially seemed that Brown had scored a touchdown. However, after a Harvard cornerback intervened and caused the ball to be knocked out, the officials confirmed the call of an incomplete pass in the end zone. Undeterred, Brown continued their offensive drive and eventually scored a touchdown with Mahoney’s 9-yard catch, followed by an unsuccessful 2-point conversion attempt that was upheld as incomplete upon review.
In sum, Brown’s thrilling victory against Harvard not only ended a longstanding losing streak but also showcased the resilience and determination of the team in staging a remarkable fourth-quarter comeback, much to the delight of their fans and supporters.
