Jeremiah Smith, the standout wide receiver for the Ohio State Buckeyes, is making headlines not just for his on-field performances but also for his impressive business acumen. Ahead of the highly anticipated National Championship Game against Notre Dame, Smith has secured a significant NIL deal, partnering with gaming giants Nintendo and Epic Games. This announcement, made via his Instagram on Wednesday, showcases the growing intersection of college athletics and brand partnerships.
Jeremiah Smith’s impressive stats this season
Smith’s contributions to the Buckeyes this season have been nothing short of remarkable. In just his freshman year, he has emerged as one of the team’s most crucial offensive players. With a staggering total of 1,227 receiving yards and 14 touchdowns on 71 receptions, Smith has proven to be a reliable target for quarterback Will Howard. Additionally, he has showcased his versatility by adding 52 rushing yards and a touchdown on five carries throughout the season.
The young receiver has also made headlines with his performance in the College Football Playoff (CFP). In the first two CFP games, Smith was a force to be reckoned with, compiling 13 catches for 290 yards and four touchdowns. However, he faced a challenge in the semifinal against Texas, where he was limited to just one catch for three yards—both season lows. This setback only adds to the intrigue as he prepares for the championship game.
NIL deals and future prospects
As of now, Smith boasts an impressive NIL valuation of $3.7 million, which is a testament to his marketability and the attention he has garnered in the college football landscape. In addition to his new partnerships with Nintendo and Epic Games, he has also secured deals with major brands like Red Bull and Lululemon. With interest from NFL teams already buzzing around him, Smith’s decision to focus on his college career until at least 2027 could be seen as a strategic move to further enhance his skills and marketability.
Key matchup: Ohio State vs. Notre Dame
The stage is set for an exhilarating showdown as Ohio State faces Notre Dame in the national championship game. Fans are eager to see how Smith and Howard will fare against a formidable Notre Dame defense. Smith’s ability to break down defenses will be crucial, especially considering his chemistry with Howard, who is expected to start as the Buckeyes’ quarterback on Monday. This dynamic duo has the potential to create explosive plays and keep the Notre Dame defense on their toes.
How to watch the national championship game
For fans looking to catch all the action, the Ohio State vs. Notre Dame national championship will be broadcast live on ESPN. Here are the essential details for tuning in:
- Date: **Monday, Jan. 20, 2025**
- Time: **7:30 p.m. ET**
- TV channel: **ESPN**
- Live stream: **Fubo**
- Venue: **Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia**
With the stakes higher than ever, fans can expect a thrilling contest filled with intense moments and unforgettable plays.
Looking ahead: Smith’s future in football
As Jeremiah Smith continues to shine on the field, his future in football looks incredibly promising. His combination of skill, athleticism, and business savvy sets him apart from many of his peers. While he is focused on leading Ohio State to victory in the national championship, the buzz surrounding his potential NFL career is only growing. If he continues to perform at this level, there’s no doubt that he will be a top prospect when he decides to enter the draft.
In summary, Jeremiah Smith is not just a rising star in college football; he is also a savvy businessman making strategic moves in the world of NIL deals. As he prepares for the national championship game, all eyes will be on him to see if he can deliver another standout performance that could solidify his legacy at Ohio State and pave the way for a successful future in the NFL. The excitement surrounding this game is palpable, and fans are ready to witness history in the making. Will Smith rise to the occasion? Only time will tell.
