COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — Jeremiah Smith, a junior wide receiver for Ohio State, is making a strong case for the Heisman Trophy this season. He has expressed that to secure the prestigious award, he needs a season reminiscent of Alabama's DeVonta Smith, who won the trophy in 2020. On Saturday, Smith began to establish his credentials during a dominant 56-3 victory over Ball State.
In the game, Smith recorded eight receptions for a remarkable 151 yards, including two touchdown catches. His performance was highlighted by a memorable moment when he struck a Heisman pose after his second touchdown, drawing comparisons to DeVonta Smith's achievements. With this game, he became the third receiver from a Power Four conference since 2015 to achieve at least two games with 150 receiving yards and two touchdowns in a single half, joining the ranks of DeVonta Smith and Ja'Marr Chase.
“It was a good start. Came out playing fast as an offense, defense made stops,” Smith remarked after the game. He noted that while the team's first drive resulted in a three-and-out, they quickly regrouped to execute a successful second drive, culminating in a touchdown. Smith's contributions were pivotal in establishing a strong offensive rhythm throughout the game.
Ohio State head coach Ryan Day acknowledged Smith's impact on the game plan, emphasizing that the offensive staff prioritized getting him involved. “As you can imagine, when the game plans are being put together, he’s very much at the front of Arthur (Smith) and the offensive staff’s mind,” Day said. Smith's performance provided valuable footage for the upcoming matchup against fifth-ranked Texas, as he showcased his ability to make crucial plays.
Smith's first touchdown of the season came on a spectacular 48-yard catch along the right sideline, which set the tone for the Buckeyes early in the game. He demonstrated impressive skill by creating separation from safety Sterling Smith on a play-action pass from quarterback Julian Sayin, making a one-handed catch in the end zone. Sayin praised Smith's route-running and the offensive line's protection, highlighting the teamwork that led to the successful play.
His second touchdown was equally impressive, as he caught a 3-yard pass in the back of the end zone while being tightly covered, managing to secure both feet in bounds. This score further emphasized the developing chemistry between Sayin and Smith, with Sayin stating, “I think you saw on the second touchdown today, we kind of knew what each other was thinking to kind of go back shoulder like that.” Sayin completed 21 of 25 passes for 320 yards and three touchdowns, showcasing his own talents alongside Smith's.
As Smith prepared for the upcoming game against Texas, he reflected on past matchups, where he has been limited to just seven catches for 46 yards without scoring a touchdown. “I’m always looking forward to a matchup like this. They are definitely loaded, got a great defense and we have to be prepared for that,” he said, indicating his eagerness to improve upon previous performances against the Longhorns.
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