Even with just 14 collegiate games under his belt, Jeremiah Smith has become one of the biggest stars in college football. Ohio State’s freshman wide receiver, just 19, has dominated the gridiron in his debut season with the Buckeyes. As his squad enters a College Football Playoff semifinal game against Texas, Smith has totaled 70 receptions for 1,224 yards and 14 touchdowns, including an incredible 187-yard performance against Oregon in the Rose Bowl.
Jeremiah Smith’s background
Although Smith’s explosion onto the scene for the Buckeyes has come quickly, his talent has been clear and well-documented since his high school days. But where did it all begin? Smith hails from Hollywood, Florida, a vibrant city nestled between Fort Lauderdale and Miami. Notably, he is the cousin of longtime NFL quarterback Geno Smith, who played at West Virginia and now starts for the Seattle Seahawks. This connection to the NFL runs deep in his family, but Jeremiah is carving out his own path.
High school achievements
Before committing to Ohio State, Smith attended Chaminade-Madonna College Preparatory School, a private Marianist school in Hollywood. During his time there, he became one of the most sought-after recruits in the nation, showcasing his exceptional skills on the field. In his senior season, he was named an All-American and even won the All-American Bowl Player of the Year Award, recognizing him as the most outstanding high school football player in the country.
But football wasn’t his only forte. Smith also excelled in track, winning the FHSAA Class 2A state championship in both the 110- and 400-meter hurdles during his junior year. His versatility and athleticism were evident, and he quickly became a household name in Florida high school sports.
Impressive high school stats
Smith’s high school stats speak volumes about his abilities. Over three seasons at Chaminade-Madonna, he amassed impressive numbers that solidified his status as a top recruit. Here’s a glance at his high school career:
| Year | Grade | Games | Receptions | Rec. yards | AVG | TDs |
| 2023-24 | Senior | 14 | 90 | 1,389 | 15.4 | 19 |
| 2022-23 | Junior | 14 | 63 | 1,098 | 17.4 | 20 |
| 2021-22 | Sophomore | 7 | 26 | 556 | 21.4 | 6 |
| Totals: | 35 | 179 | 3,043 | 17.0 | 45 |
These numbers are not just statistics; they reflect Smith’s hard work, dedication, and undeniable talent. With 179 receptions and 3,043 receiving yards over three seasons, he was clearly a force to be reckoned with.
Recruitment journey
Smith’s recruitment journey was nothing short of remarkable. He was the consensus top-ranked recruit in the 2024 class and the highest-ranked wide receiver recruit in modern recruiting history (2000-present), surpassing legends like Dorial Green-Beckham and Julio Jones. With offers from a plethora of schools, including Florida State, Miami, Florida, and Georgia, Smith ultimately chose to play under head coach Ryan Day at Ohio State.
As a five-star recruit, Smith drew comparisons to some of the greatest wide receivers in NFL history. On3’s recruiting profile likened him to Larry Fitzgerald, while 247Sports compared him to Julio Jones. These comparisons are not made lightly; they highlight the high expectations placed on him as he transitions into college football.
What makes Smith special?
So, what sets Jeremiah Smith apart from other talented players? According to 247Sports’ Andrew Ivins, Smith possesses a “rare combination of size, speed, and hands” that makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses. He can overpower defensive backs with his imposing frame, but he’s much more than just a contested-catch specialist. His dynamic route-running ability allows him to create separation and exploit defensive weaknesses.
Ivins notes that while Smith will need to continue perfecting his craft, he is poised to make an immediate impact on the field. His combination of physical attributes and skill set suggests that he could very well be a Day 1 selection in the NFL Draft when his time comes.
Looking ahead
As Jeremiah Smith continues to shine in his freshman season with the Buckeyes, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how his career unfolds. With Ohio State gearing up for the College Football Playoff, all eyes will be on Smith as he looks to further cement his legacy. Will he continue to break records and lead his team to victory? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: Jeremiah Smith is a name that college football fans will be hearing for years to come.
