Few players in football can truly be compared to Julio Jones. The future Hall of Famer turned a stellar college career at Alabama into a remarkable NFL journey, where he earned seven Pro Bowl selections with the Atlanta Falcons. His impact on the game is undeniable, and now, as we look to the future, a new name is emerging that has fans buzzing: Ohio State’s Jeremiah Smith.
### Jeremiah Smith’s Breakout Season
Jeremiah Smith has taken the college football world by storm this season. As a true freshman, he is not just participating; he is excelling. With Will Howard at quarterback, the two have formed a dynamic duo that has propelled the Buckeyes into the College Football Playoff semifinals. Smith’s performance has been nothing short of spectacular, and it’s clear that he is a key reason for Ohio State’s success.
Entering the CFP semifinal against Texas, Smith boasts an impressive stat line: 70 receptions for 1,224 yards and 14 touchdowns. Among all receivers in the nation, he ranks tied for 33rd in catches, but he shines even brighter in receiving yards, sitting sixth, and tied for third in touchdowns. These numbers are remarkable for a player who is just 19 years old and still finding his footing in college football.
### Comparisons to Julio Jones
It’s not just the fans who are noticing Smith’s talent; former Alabama head coach Nick Saban has also drawn comparisons between Smith and Julio Jones. Saban, who had the privilege of coaching Jones during his time at Alabama, sees striking similarities between the two athletes.
“When you have a mismatch player like that, and [defenses] can’t guard [Smith], you know he’s going to make plays in critical situations,” Saban shared on “The Pat McAfee Show.” He went on to highlight how Jones was that kind of player during his college days, saying, “We had lots of first-round draft picks at wide receivers, but he was the one guy that you knew if you threw him the ball in a critical situation, he was going to win, and he was going to make the play.”
Saban’s words carry weight, especially considering Smith has only played 14 games in college football. Yet, he has already shown he can rise to the occasion, leading to excitement about what lies ahead for the Buckeyes.
### A Closer Look at the Stats
When we compare Smith’s freshman season to Jones’ career at Alabama, the numbers tell a compelling story. In his first year, Smith has already surpassed Jones in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdowns. Jones’ 2008 campaign saw him record 58 receptions for 924 yards and four touchdowns. In contrast, Smith’s numbers are significantly higher, showcasing his ability to make an immediate impact.
Moreover, Smith’s first year in Columbus might even eclipse any of Jones’ seasons at Alabama. For instance, during Jones’ junior year in 2010, he had 78 receptions for 1,133 yards. Smith is on pace to match or exceed that total by the end of his freshman season, which is a testament to his exceptional skill set and work ethic.
### Physical Attributes: Size and Skill
Another factor that draws comparisons between Smith and Jones is their physical attributes. Smith stands at 6-3 and weighs 215 pounds, making him a formidable presence on the field. Jones, during the 2011 NFL Draft Combine, measured in at 6-3 and 220 pounds, just five pounds heavier than Smith.
But it’s not just their size that makes them similar; it’s how they both approach the game. Both players are known for their ability to attack the ball, demonstrating remarkable athleticism and skill in contested situations. Jones built a career on making those tough catches in Atlanta, and Smith appears to be on a similar trajectory.
### The Touchdown Factor
One of the standout differences in their early careers is the touchdown production. Julio Jones finished his Alabama career with 15 total touchdowns over 40 games and three seasons. In stark contrast, Jeremiah Smith has already racked up 14 touchdowns in just one year. This remarkable statistic highlights Smith’s ability to find the end zone consistently, making him a valuable asset to the Buckeyes’ offense.
### The Future of Ohio State Football
As Ohio State prepares for its upcoming playoff matchup, all eyes will be on Jeremiah Smith. Can he continue to perform at this elite level? Will he help lead the Buckeyes to a national championship? These are questions that fans are eagerly anticipating answers to.
With his impressive stats, physical attributes, and the high praise from coaching legends, Smith is not just a player to watch; he is a player who could redefine the expectations for future wide receivers at Ohio State and beyond. The comparisons to Julio Jones may be lofty, but if Smith continues on this path, he may very well carve out his own legacy in college football history.
### The Road Ahead
As the College Football Playoff unfolds, the excitement surrounding Jeremiah Smith continues to grow. Will he be able to replicate the success of Julio Jones and etch his name into the annals of college football history? With each game, Smith has the opportunity to showcase his talent and potential, and fans are ready to witness what he can achieve. The future is bright for this young star, and the football world is watching closely.
