Jeremiah Smith was supposed to be a star for Ohio State. He was supposed to be a game-breaking receiver even as a very young freshman. He was supposed to help restore the Buckeyes to national glory, something they'd been missing for several years. He did all that and more, making him one of college football's best players this year. In fact, PFF claims he's the best player returning period.
PFF hails Jeremiah Smith ahead of year 2
PFF's Max Chadwick said, "As a true freshman, Smith was the most valuable receiver in college football, according to PFF’s wins above average metric. His 89.8 PFF receiving grade in 2024 ranked third and is more than four points higher than any other returning wideout." The wide receiver had an alarmingly good year, leading the Power Four with 15 receiving touchdowns. Only Tetairoa McMillan had more receiving yards, and McMillan ended up a top 10 pick for the Carolina Panthers.
The analyst went on, "Smith is an athletic freak at 6-foot-3 and 215 pounds with an incredibly refined skill set for someone who turned 19 years old in November. Not only is he the best returning receiver in college football, but he’s the best returning player in college football." Smith is an unimaginable talent, and he could only be getting started.
Ohio State did lose a ton of players following their national title, including the player who threw those touchdowns to Smith, QB Will Howard. However, Smith's talent is enough to offset some of the title hangover worries, and he is more than good enough to help elevate freshman Julian Sayin's play this year.