Jeremiah Smith, the freshman sensation for the Ohio State Buckeyes, has had a breakout season that keeps getting better. The talented wide receiver’s accomplishments have been nothing short of remarkable, earning him multiple prestigious awards after an impressive first year with the program.
After rewriting several single-season records for the Buckeyes, Smith has now been named both the Big Ten Conference Freshman of the Year and the Wide Receiver of the Year. His performance has captured the attention of college football fans and analysts across the country, as he continues to cement his legacy as one of the brightest young stars in the game.
A Record-Breaking Season
Smith’s 2024 regular season stats are jaw-dropping for a freshman. He finished with 57 receptions, 934 receiving yards, and 11 total touchdowns. These numbers not only helped his team but also allowed him to break Ohio State’s single-season records for most receptions, receiving yards, and touchdowns by a freshman.
Despite being surrounded by other elite wide receivers like Emeka Egbuka and Carnell Tate, Smith stood out as the team’s leading receiver. His explosive playmaking ability helped Ohio State’s offense dominate throughout the regular season, showcasing his ability to excel in a highly competitive environment.
Among the Big Ten’s Best
Smith’s individual performance has propelled him to one of the top spots in the Big Ten Conference rankings. He finished with the third-most receiving yards in the Big Ten, trailing only Maryland’s Tai Felton and Illinois’ Pat Bryant. What makes this even more impressive is that Smith was the only freshman in the top 15 for receiving yards this season, with Michigan State’s Nick Marsh being the closest, finishing with 649 yards.
What’s Next for Smith
As Ohio State prepares for the 2024 College Football Playoffs, there’s still a chance Smith could eclipse the 1,000-yard mark. The Buckeyes are projected to face the Tennessee Volunteers in the first round of the playoffs, assuming the conference championships unfold as expected. This matchup presents Smith with an incredible opportunity to further showcase his talents on a national stage.
Tennessee’s defense has been one of the best in the country against the run, but they have shown vulnerabilities in the passing game. With the playmaking abilities Smith has demonstrated all season, this could be the perfect chance for him to make an even bigger impact in his first-ever College Football Playoff appearance.
Conclusion
Jeremiah Smith’s stellar freshman season has already made him one of the most talked-about players in college football. His numerous accolades, record-breaking achievements, and consistent performance have positioned him as a future star for Ohio State. As the Buckeyes head into the playoffs, Smith’s potential to further elevate his game makes him a key player to watch in the coming weeks.
