And they have.

The Crimson will start sophomore Kweli Thompson in replacement at left halfback. Junior Mark Cote will start at right halfback while senior Nick Isaacson takes the fullback position.

The Harvard defense, which has been the most compelling preseason question, can take comfort in one interesting fact. Captain Brian Ramer seems to like playing Columbia. Last season, the senior picked off two Lion passes in the fourth quarter and garnered a place on the ECAC weekly honor roll for his performance. Look for Ramer to have another big day.

With everything set to go then, Harvard also has one more psychological advantage on its side.

Remember, it is Restic and Giardi's last season. It is opening day, and the fear of a loss to Columbia may be a bigger motivational factor than anything else.

"It's the first game of the season," Chambliss said. "It means a lot to everyone no matter what, but this year, it will probably have a little more edge."

And that edge is Harvard's. Expect the Crimson to have a big game in all areas. Expect Giardi to have yards, yards, yards on the ground and in the air. And expect Restic's final record against Columbia to read 22 wins and 1 loss. SPORTS CUBE PREDICTS

Y. Tarek Farouki, Assoc. Sports Editor Harvard  28 Columbia  10

Gady A. Epstein, Managing Editor Harvard  16 Columbia  13

D. Richard DeSilva, Assoc. Man. Editor Harvard  34 Columbia  0

Andrew L. Wright, Staff Writer Harvard  20 Columbia  14