Jeremiah Smith: A Freshman Phenom Redefining Ohio State Football
Jeremiah Smith's arrival at Ohio State was met with considerable fanfare, and the young wide receiver has not only lived up to the hype but exceeded it, etching his name into both Ohio State and Big Ten record books. As the nation's No. 1 recruit in the 2024 class, Smith has quickly established himself as a dominant force on the field, showcasing exceptional talent and a remarkable ability to perform under pressure.
Early Life and Overcoming Initial Obstacles
Born on November 29, 2005, in Miami Gardens, Florida, Jeremiah Smith's journey to football stardom began with an early setback. At the age of seven, he tried out for the Miami Gardens Ravens youth football team but didn't make the cut. This defining moment, as it was perceived by Smith and his father, Chris, became a catalyst for Smith to take his training more seriously, fueling his determination to excel.
Record-Breaking Freshman Season
Smith's freshman season at Ohio State was nothing short of spectacular. He shattered Ohio State's freshman receiving records, surpassing the marks set by Cris Carter in 1984. By the end of the season, Smith had registered 70 receptions for 1,224 yards and 14 touchdown receptions. He also contributed on the ground, with five carries for 52 yards and another touchdown.
Dominating the Rose Bowl
Smith's exceptional performance in the Rose Bowl against Oregon solidified his status as a rising star. He had 7 catches for 187 yards and 2 receiving touchdowns in an MVP performance against the Oregon Ducks in the 2025 Rose Bowl. He was also named the Big Ten Freshman of the Year, Big Ten Receiver of the Year and selected as a first-team All-American by NCAA unofficial selectors, the USA Today and ESPN in 2024.
In the Rose Bowl, Smith set a single-season Big Ten record for the most touchdown receptions by a freshman, with a 45-yard catch from Will Howard on Ohio State's first possession. He added another touchdown in the second quarter with a 43-yard reception, helping the Buckeyes secure a commanding lead. Smith's Rose Bowl performance earned him the Offensive MVP award in Ohio State's 41-21 victory.
Read also: True Freshman Phenom
Surpassing Legends and Setting New Standards
Smith's 13th receiving touchdown of the season broke the previous Big Ten record of 12, held by Purdue's Rondale Moore since 2018. He tied the record in Ohio State's first-round College Football Playoff game against Tennessee, where he had six catches for 103 yards and two touchdowns.
Praise from Teammates and Comparisons to NFL Stars
Jeremiah Smith's talent has garnered high praise from his teammates, including Buckeyes cornerback Denzel Burke. Burke, who has practiced against a recent line of NFL first-round receivers such as Garrett Wilson, Chris Olave, Jaxon Smith-Njigba, and Marvin Harrison Jr., believes Smith has the potential to be the best receiver to ever play for Ohio State. "He'll probably be the best receiver to come through here," Burke said. "He's already on that verge, so really happy for him." Burke notes that while he sees qualities of those other great receivers in Smith, "he's Jeremiah Smith. He's a whole different person, so that's awesome."
Impact and Future Potential
Smith's outstanding freshman season has not only earned him numerous accolades but has also positioned him as a key player in Ohio State's quest for a national championship. His ability to make game-changing plays, combined with his dedication and work ethic, suggests a promising future in college football and beyond. He'll get a chance to add to those numbers in the CFP semifinals, when Ohio State will face Texas in the Cotton Bowl.
Ties to NFL Lineage
Jeremiah Smith also has familial ties to the NFL, as he is the cousin of Geno Smith, quarterback of the Las Vegas Raiders. Interestingly, Chip Kelly, who recruited Geno from Miramar High School in Miramar, Florida, coached Jeremiah at Ohio State University before joining Las Vegas as offensive coordinator and coaching Geno Smith.
NIL Deals and Recognition
Smith's on-field success has translated into off-field opportunities, including lucrative Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals. He signed a historic NIL deal with Adidas after his standout season. Additionally, EA Sports named Smith as one of the cover athletes for its upcoming College Football 26 video game.
Read also: Balancing Act: Football and Academics
Read also: Football Prodigy: Jeremiah Smith
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