One pundit had a horrible take regarding freshman Jeremiah Smith and his impact on the Ohio State football program.
In a season where Ohio State’s freshman wide receiver Jeremiah Smith shattered records and showcased unparalleled talent, it was surprising to witness a pundit’s harsh critique that seemed to overlook his monumental contributions. Smith’s inaugural year with the Buckeyes was nothing short of historic, making the criticism not only unexpected but also seemingly unfounded.
A Record-Breaking Debut
Jeremiah Smith entered Ohio State as the nation’s top recruit in the 2024 class, and he quickly validated the hype surrounding him. In his debut against the Akron Zips, Smith recorded six receptions for 92 yards and two touchdowns, leading the team in yardage and setting the tone for a remarkable season.
Throughout the season, Smith continued to dazzle. He tied and then surpassed Ohio State legend Cris Carter’s freshman receiving touchdown record, achieving his ninth touchdown with a 17-yard catch against Purdue. By the end of the season, Smith had amassed 76 receptions for 1,315 yards and 15 touchdowns, setting new Ohio State freshman records in all three categories.
Clutch Performances on the Biggest Stages
Smith’s impact was most evident during critical moments in high-stakes games. In the College Football Playoff National Championship against Notre Dame, with Ohio State clinging to an eight-point lead late in the fourth quarter, Smith secured a 56-yard reception on a crucial third-and-11, effectively sealing the 34-23 victory and delivering the Buckeyes their first national championship in a decade.
His postseason heroics were not limited to the championship game. In the Rose Bowl against top-ranked Oregon, Smith earned MVP honors with seven receptions for 187 yards and two touchdowns, leading Ohio State to a 41-21 victory and a spot in the semifinals.
Accolades and Recognition
Smith’s stellar performances did not go unnoticed. He was named the Big Ten Freshman of the Year, Big Ten Receiver of the Year, and earned first-team All-American honors. His 1,315 receiving yards set a Big Ten record for freshmen, and his 15 touchdowns were among the highest in the nation.
The Unexpected Critique
Despite these accomplishments, a pundit offered a critique that many found puzzling. The criticism appeared to disregard Smith’s record-breaking statistics and his pivotal role in Ohio State’s championship run. Fans and analysts alike were taken aback, questioning the basis of such a perspective given Smith’s undeniable impact on the field.
A Bright Future Ahead
Jeremiah Smith’s freshman year has cemented his place in Ohio State history and set the stage for a promising future. His combination of size, speed, and football intelligence makes him a formidable opponent for any defense. As he continues to develop, Smith is poised to become one of college football’s most dominant receivers.
In conclusion, while critiques are part and parcel of an athlete’s journey, it’s essential to consider the full scope of their contributions. Jeremiah Smith’s historic freshman season speaks volumes, and his future in college football looks exceptionally bright.
