As the 2026 college football season approaches, Ohio State is once again poised to be a powerhouse, despite losing several starters. With their eyes set on another national championship, the Buckeyes' roster is brimming with talent. Leading the charge is junior wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, who tops the list of Ohio State's best players heading into the new season.
Jeremiah Smith: A Star in the Making
Smith's journey to the top has been nothing short of spectacular. As one of the highest-rated prospects Ohio State has ever signed, he made an immediate impact.
Coming out of Chaminade-Madonna High School in Florida, Smith was a force to be reckoned with, boasting 88 catches for 1,376 yards and 19 touchdowns in his senior year. His performance earned him the MaxPreps national player of the year title, and Ohio State won a fierce recruiting battle to secure his talents.
From his first spring practice in 2024, it was clear Smith was a special talent. He quickly filled the shoes of former star Marvin Harrison Jr., joining veterans like Emeka Egbuka and Carnell Tate in the starting lineup.
As a freshman, Smith's performance was historic, helping lead the Buckeyes to a national championship with 76 catches for 1,315 yards and 15 touchdowns. His standout game came in the Rose Bowl against Oregon, where he recorded 187 yards and two touchdowns.
In his sophomore year, Smith continued to shine, despite missing two games due to injury. He amassed 87 catches for 1,243 yards and 12 touchdowns, earning unanimous first-team All-American honors. However, he was controversially overlooked for the Fred Biletnikoff Award.
Smith's Place in Ohio State History
Smith's name is already etched in Ohio State's record books. His 187-yard game against Oregon ranks tenth in school history for single-game yardage.
With 11 career 100-yard games, he trails only Marvin Harrison Jr.'s record of 15. His single-season achievements include the third-most catches (87) and fourth-most yards (1,315) in school history.
Smith's career totals are equally impressive. With 163 catches, he ranks seventh in Ohio State history, while his 2,558 receiving yards and 27 touchdowns place him among the top in those categories as well. The school records for career receptions and yardage are within his reach, setting the stage for a potentially historic 2026 season.
Looking Ahead to 2026
Expectations are sky-high for Smith as he enters his junior year. With departures of key teammates to the NFL, Smith will be the focal point of Ohio State's offense. He'll be working alongside quarterback Julian Sayin for the second straight season, and their chemistry is expected to be a significant asset.
Sayin has expressed excitement about their continued partnership, emphasizing their growing connection on the field. This duo is poised to make waves, with Smith already projected as a top-five pick in early 2027 NFL mock drafts.
As the Buckeyes prepare for the upcoming season, fans eagerly anticipate what Smith will achieve next. With his talent and determination, the sky's the limit for this standout receiver. Stay tuned as Ohio State gears up for another thrilling season, and keep an eye on Jeremiah Smith as he continues to make history.