Harvard secured a 30-7 victory over Holy Cross in a nonconference college football game Saturday afternoon at Harvard Stadium. The game featured a strong offensive performance from the No. 17 ranked Harvard team, which improved to 5-0 on the season.

Quarterback Charlie Smith played a key role, completing 19 of 32 passes for 297 yards, including a 67-yard touchdown connection with wide receiver Henry Shoemaker late in the third quarter that extended Harvard’s lead to 23-7. Shoemaker finished with three catches for 83 yards.

Running back Kise Flannery contributed two rushing touchdowns for Harvard, one a one-yard run in the first half and another 10-yard score in the fourth quarter with just under five minutes remaining. Kieran Corr added two 37-yard field goals, helping the Crimson establish a 13-7 lead at halftime.

Holy Cross, which entered the game averaging 39.5 points across its first two wins this season, was held to a single touchdown. The Crusaders scored early in the second quarter when quarterback Jake Croce completed a 51-yard touchdown pass to Joseph Williams. At that point, Holy Cross trailed 10-7. Williams, who led the Crusaders with 123 yards rushing and four receptions totaling 87 yards, was a key component of their offense.

Despite Holy Cross’s efforts, Harvard maintained control throughout the contest, using balanced offensive drives and stout defense to limit the Crusaders' scoring opportunities. The result dropped Holy Cross to 2-5 on the year.

The victory for Harvard keeps their unbeaten record intact and demonstrates their strength as an FCS contender. Holy Cross faces challenges moving forward as they seek to rebound from this defeat.