Jeremiah Smith is feeling the sting of change as he learns that his offensive coordinator, Chip Kelly, is leaving Columbus. The news broke on Sunday that Kelly will be taking on the role of offensive coordinator for the Las Vegas Raiders, a move that has left Smith heartbroken.
Jeremiah Smith’s Reaction to Kelly’s Departure
In a heartfelt tweet, Smith expressed his dismay with a simple yet poignant “Nooooo,” accompanied by a heartbroken emoji. It’s clear that the bond formed during their time together was significant, especially considering Smith’s record-breaking freshman season. With 76 receptions for 1,315 yards and 15 touchdowns, he emerged as the team’s leading receiver, showcasing his immense talent on the field.
Kelly’s Impact on the Buckeyes
Under Kelly’s guidance, Ohio State’s offense was nothing short of explosive. The team averaged an impressive 35.7 points per game, ranking 14th in scoring offense nationally. They also racked up 429.4 yards of offense per game, tying for 28th in the country. This offensive prowess played a crucial role in the Buckeyes’ successful season, culminating in a 14-2 record and a victory in the College Football Playoff.
Turnover in the Buckeyes Program
However, the success of the season has ushered in a wave of turnover within the program. With players graduating or heading to the professional ranks, the Buckeyes are facing significant changes. The departure of both coordinators is particularly notable, as Kelly heads back to the NFL and defensive coordinator Jim Knowles takes a similar position at Penn State. This shift raises questions about the future direction of the team and how they will adapt to new leadership.
Kelly’s NFL Return
Chip Kelly’s return to the NFL is a significant move, as he is set to work under head coach Pete Carroll with the Las Vegas Raiders. This transition marks a new chapter for Kelly, who has a storied history in the league. After a successful tenure as the offensive coordinator and head coach at Oregon, he made his way to the NFL, taking the reins of the Philadelphia Eagles. Although his time with the Eagles and the San Francisco 49ers ended with a 28-35 record, Kelly’s experience in the pros will be invaluable as he embarks on this rebuilding project with the Raiders.
Smith’s Potential in the Future
Despite the upheaval, Jeremiah Smith’s talent is undeniable. He has proven that he can thrive in any offensive system, and his skills will likely shine regardless of who steps in as the new coordinator. However, it’s natural for a player to feel a sense of loss when a mentor and key figure in their development departs. Smith’s emotional response underscores the importance of relationships in college football, where coaches often play a pivotal role in shaping a player’s career.
The Buckeyes’ Future
As the Buckeyes navigate this period of transition, fans will be eager to see how the new coaching staff will build on the foundation laid by Kelly and Knowles. Will they maintain the offensive firepower that made Ohio State a force in college football? Or will they implement a new strategy that could alter the team’s identity? These questions loom large as the program looks to the future.
In the world of college football, change is constant. Coaches come and go, players graduate, and new talents emerge. For Jeremiah Smith, this moment is bittersweet. He is left to ponder what could have been with Kelly at the helm for another season. Yet, with his remarkable abilities and determination, there’s no doubt that Smith will continue to make waves in the sport, no matter who is calling the plays.
As fans, we can only wait and see how this unfolding drama will impact the Buckeyes and their pursuit of excellence in the coming seasons. With new challenges ahead, the resilience of this storied program will be put to the test, and the excitement of college football remains as vibrant as ever.
