Oregon hasn’t allowed a single WR to top 100 yards this season. Jeremiah Smith already has five catches for 161 yards and two touchdowns in the first half alone!
Find out how Ohio State’s superstar freshman got to this point ➡️ 
Jeremiah Smith, the 6-foot-1, 195-pound wide receiver out of South Florida, has taken college football by storm, and his performance in the first half against Oregon speaks volumes about his immense talent. As a freshman at Ohio State, Smith has quickly established himself as one of the most electrifying playmakers in the country, and his 161-yard, two-touchdown performance in the first half against a defense that hadn’t allowed a 100-yard receiver all season is just the latest display of his extraordinary abilities.
Smith’s rise to stardom began long before he arrived at Ohio State. He was widely regarded as one of the top high school recruits in the 2024 class, receiving a five-star ranking and earning the title of the best wide receiver prospect in the nation. His high school career was nothing short of legendary, playing for Chaminade-Madonna Prep in Hollywood, Florida, where he posted jaw-dropping stats in his senior year, totaling over 1,500 yards and 18 touchdowns. His combination of size, speed, and route-running ability made him a nightmare for defenders, and it was clear that he had the skill set to succeed at the highest level of college football.
Smith’s decision to commit to Ohio State in 2024 was a major win for the Buckeyes.
Known for developing elite wide receivers and producing NFL talent, Ohio State was the perfect program to help Smith reach his full potential.
The coaching staff, led by head coach Ryan Day and offensive coordinator Brian Hartline, recognized Smith’s versatility and ability to stretch the field with his deep ball skills.
They’ve utilized him in a variety of ways, from lining up outside to playing in the slot, and have quickly integrated him into their high-powered offense.
The freshman’s performance against Oregon is a testament to his preparation and natural ability.
Oregon’s defense had been stellar all season, not allowing any receiver to surpass 100 yards in a game. But from the very first play, Smith’s explosive speed and precise route-running gave the Ducks’ secondary fits.
He created separation with ease, utilizing his quick release off the line and precise footwork to break open for deep passes. Quarterback Kyle McCord found Smith in stride multiple times, leading to big gains, including a dazzling 70-yard touchdown catch where Smith showcased his breakaway speed.
Smith’s two first-half touchdowns were a combination of elite athleticism and football IQ. His first touchdown came on a perfectly timed deep ball down the sideline, where he tracked the pass and adjusted mid-air to make the catch while evading an Oregon defender. His second touchdown was a display of his after-the-catch ability, as he caught a quick slant, broke a tackle, and sprinted down the field for a 60-yard score.
These plays demonstrate the full range of his skills—his ability to get open deep, his ball-tracking skills, and his power after the catch.
What sets Smith apart is his ability to excel in various situations. While his deep ball skills are well-documented, he also possesses the ability to run a complete route tree, from slants and comebacks to fades and posts. His football intelligence allows him to quickly adjust to different defensive coverages and exploit mismatches.
Additionally, his work ethic and physicality make him difficult to bring down after the catch. As a result, he has quickly become one of the most dangerous players on the field, capable of scoring from anywhere at any time.
Ohio State’s success on offense has played a significant role in Smith’s development.
?The Buckeyes boast one of the most dynamic and balanced offenses in the nation, and their passing game is built around explosive, game-breaking receivers like Smith. The offensive line’s ability to protect McCord and give him time to survey the field has allowed Smith to take advantage of defensive lapses, while the versatility of Ohio State’s receiving corps keeps opposing defenses on edge. This balance has allowed Smith to flourish and has created opportunities for him to shine in ways few freshmen can.
As Smith continues to develop, his future looks incredibly bright. His performance against Oregon is just the beginning, and it’s clear that he has the potential to be a superstar in college football for years to come. With his combination of size, speed, and technical prowess, he’s positioned to make a significant impact in Ohio State’s quest for a national championship and possibly even be a future first-round pick in the NFL Draft. For now, though, Smith is enjoying his freshman year and establishing himself as one of the most exciting players to watch in college football. His performance against Oregon is just the latest reminder that Jeremiah Smith is here to stay.
