CAMBRIDGE, Mass.
Cooper Barkate made a crucial touchdown catch with just 45 seconds remaining, leading Harvard to a thrilling 35-34 victory over Holy Cross on Saturday.
Harvard was ahead 27-7 with only 2:02 left in the third quarter, but Holy Cross surged back, scoring 21 unanswered points to take a narrow 28-27 lead with 1:44 remaining in the game.
The start of Harvard’s final drive looked like it would begin at their own 11-yard line due to a kickoff returner allegedly failing to signal for a fair catch. However, after a review, the initial decision was overturned.
Barkate then showcased his skills with two consecutive catches, each covering over 20 yards, advancing the team close to midfield. Following an 18-yard touchdown catch by Barkate, Xaviah Bascon converted a shovel pass into a 2-point conversion, extending the score to 35-28.
Holy Cross responded, marching rapidly down the field with several opportunities to clinch victory in the waning moments. A potential game-winning catch by Byron Shipman in the end zone was negated due to offensive pass interference with just 25 seconds left on the clock.
Subsequently, Justin Shorter caught a deflected Hail Mary pass, but he could not secure it before the ball touched the ground. After a review, officials added one second back onto the game clock.
Joe Pesansky deftly evaded pressure and connected with tight end Jacob Petersen in the end zone right as the clock expired. Even though Holy Cross had amassed 246 rushing yards in the game, the team chose to go for the win through the air on the 2-point conversion attempt. Unfortunately for them, Pesansky’s pass went through Shorter’s hands, sealing the loss.
For Harvard, Jaden Craig completed an impressive 20 of 25 passes for 257 yards and three touchdowns.
On the other side, Pesansky also threw for three touchdowns, accumulating 277 yards for Holy Cross. Jayden Clerveaux had a standout performance with 165 rushing yards and two touchdowns, and Max Mosey made a significant contribution, catching six passes for 149 yards and two touchdowns.