Ohio State freshman Jeremiah Smith has quickly become one of the most talked-about players in college football since the beginning of the 2024 season.
As the top-ranked overall recruit in the 2024 class, Smith has wasted no time showcasing his extraordinary talents. In his first year as a Buckeye, the wide receiver led the team with an impressive 1,224 receiving yards and 14 touchdowns, establishing himself as a focal point in Ohio State’s potent offense. But Smith’s impact has extended beyond just his team. He has quickly ascended to national prominence, earning a reputation as one of the best wide receivers in the country. His play has been so dominant that players from Texas, who will face Ohio State in a crucial matchup, have openly praised him and acknowledged his exceptional ability.
Texas safety Michael Taaffe, who is no stranger to facing elite competition, spoke highly of Smith, noting the vast talent and potential the young receiver possesses. “The whole country knows what type of talent he has, what kind of football player he is,” Taaffe remarked. “And I think he’s only going to get better because he’s just 18. I don’t know how you can compare anyone else to him.” Taaffe’s comments reflect the widespread admiration for Smith’s unique skills, and the fact that he’s still just a teenager makes his success even more remarkable.
It’s not just his physical attributes that have impressed onlookers, but also his high football IQ. Smith’s ability to read defenses and make the right decisions under pressure has already set him apart from his peers. A perfect example of this came during the Rose Bowl, where Smith turned heads with an outstanding performance against top-ranked, undefeated Oregon. He hauled in seven receptions for a season-high 187 yards, displaying his deep threat capabilities and clutch playmaking ability in a high-stakes game.
Jahdae Barron, a Texas cornerback and Thorpe Award winner, also praised Jeremiah Smith, recognizing his potential to make an immediate impact on any level. “It’s going to be an amazing opportunity to go against him,” Barron said. “That kid can ball. He’s a big-time player. Strong, fast, and a deep threat. They do a great job creating chances to get him the ball.” Barron’s words reflect the respect Jeremiah Smith commands from some of the best defenders in the country. He is seen not just as a talented freshman but as a legitimate game-changer who can alter the course of any contest.
Although Smith’s remarkable freshman season has led many to believe that he could be a first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, the wide receiver’s status as a true freshman means that he is not eligible for the draft until 2027. However, his early success has already earned him the label of “NFL-ready” by many scouts and analysts. The fact that he’s already being viewed as a player who could transition seamlessly into the NFL, despite not being eligible for several years, underscores the level of talent he brings to the field.
“Everything about him is incredible,” said Taaffe. “He looks like an NFL player already on tape. He can go up and grab the ball over two or three defenders. They trust him completely. No matter how good the defense’s coverage is, [quarterback Will Howard] still gives him a shot… He’s a very talented player. There’s no way he’s actually 18. He’s a beast, and I’m excited to compete against him.” These comments reveal just how much confidence Smith has instilled in those around him. His ability to perform in high-pressure situations, outmuscling defenders, and making spectacular plays, has caught the attention of players and coaches alike.
As the teams prepare for their upcoming showdown, Texas and Ohio State will meet on Friday, January 10, at 6:30 p.m. ET at the Cotton Bowl, with a spot in the national championship game on the line. For Texas, facing a player of Jeremiah Smith’s caliber will be a significant challenge, but it’s also a huge opportunity to prove themselves against one of the nation’s most dominant freshmen. Smith’s presence on the field will undoubtedly be a focal point in this high-stakes contest, and how Texas defends him could be one of the key storylines of the game.
With his combination of size, speed, route running, and game awareness, Smith is already a household name in college football. His ability to change the game, even as a true freshman, has earned him recognition as one of the most promising talents in the country. As the next chapter of his collegiate career unfolds, college football fans will continue to watch closely, eagerly anticipating what this extraordinary young receiver will do next. For now, all eyes will be on the Cotton Bowl as Texas and Ohio State battle for a spot in the national championship game, with Jeremiah Smith poised to play a major role in shaping the outcome of this pivotal contest.