Harvard's Marching band claims viral photo shows band spelling 'Pen '15'

BOSTON, Nov. 17 (UPI) -- Harvard band leaders looked to straighten out what's being called a misunderstanding after fans misinterpreted the band's message to the University of Pennsylvania's football team.

During a halftime of a football game between the two schools the Harvard band came together to form the message "Pen '15". Unfortunately, the decision to forgo the second "n" usually included in the abbreviation of Pennsylvania led several onlookers to believe they were spelling the word "Penis".

"I don't think that happens by accident." Jacob Adler tweeted.

Despite rampant skepticism after the photo went viral, Harvard band manager Paul Meosky defended his band's intentions.

"Out last formation spelled Pen '15. The formation may have appeared indistinct due to lower attendance than expected, however, we believe it still clearly spells Pen '15, as we intended," he said.

While close inspection does reveal an attempt at both a space and an apostrophe, many including Meosky's own brother, believe that the similarity was no accident.

"When your brother is in charge of the Harvard band...Apparently it said "Pen '15"...Right." Joe Meosky tweeted, alongside a photo of the formation.