A significant factor behind Ohio State’s success in the College Football Playoff semifinals is the remarkable performance of freshman wide receiver Jeremiah Smith. The young star showcased his talent in the Rose Bowl against Oregon, racking up an impressive 187 yards and two touchdowns in a dominant victory for the Buckeyes.
Jeremiah Smith’s High School Legacy
Before making waves in college football, Smith honed his skills at Chaminade-Madonna College Preparatory in Hollywood, Florida. During his junior and senior years, he played in 28 games, accumulating an astounding 153 catches for 2,487 yards and 39 touchdowns. His exceptional high school career caught the attention of major college programs, and ultimately, he chose to commit to Ohio State over Florida, Florida State, USC, and others.
Breaking Records as a Freshman
Smith’s freshman season has been nothing short of historic. He shattered Ohio State’s previous freshman receiving record, which stood at 664 yards, set by the legendary Cris Carter. With 70 receptions for 1,224 yards and 14 touchdowns, Smith has positioned himself among the elite freshmen in college football history. His performance has drawn comparisons to other standout freshman seasons, such as Mike Williams from USC and Rondale Moore from Purdue, both of whom had exceptional years in their debut seasons.
In fact, ESPN’s Bill Connelly ranked Smith’s 2024 season as the 11th-best ever by a true freshman. As Ohio State continues its journey in the College Football Playoff, Smith has the opportunity to further enhance his already impressive statistics and legacy.
How Old Is Jeremiah Smith?
Born on November 29, 2005, Smith recently celebrated his 19th birthday, making him one of the youngest players on the Buckeyes roster. His youth has not hindered his performance; rather, it has allowed him to shine brightly on the national stage. When he committed to Ohio State, he was the No. 1 ranked recruit in the country, a testament to his immense talent and potential.
Future Prospects
Smith’s future in football looks incredibly promising. However, he will not be eligible to declare for the NFL Draft until 2027, as NFL rules stipulate that players must be three years removed from high school and have exhausted their collegiate eligibility. If he were eligible for the 2025 NFL Draft, many analysts believe he would be a strong contender for the No. 1 pick, given his extraordinary skills and performance thus far.
Jeremiah Smith’s Stats
Let’s take a closer look at Smith’s impressive statistics this season:
| Receptions | Receiving Yards | Receiving Touchdowns |
| 70 | 1,224 | 14 |
These numbers not only highlight his ability to make plays but also reflect his consistency and reliability as a target for Ohio State’s quarterbacks.
Jeremiah Smith’s Journey Ahead
As Smith continues to develop his game, he is already entering conversations about being one of the elite-level players in college football. His ability to adjust quickly to the college game is a rarity, especially for a freshman. While most players take time to acclimate, Smith has burst onto the scene, showcasing skills that many seasoned players would envy.
With Ohio State still competing in the College Football Playoff, fans and analysts alike are eager to see what Smith will do next. Will he add to his already impressive resume? The excitement surrounding his potential is palpable, and as he takes the field, all eyes will be on him.
Smith’s journey from a high school standout to a key player in the College Football Playoff is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and undeniable talent. As he continues to make headlines, one thing is clear: Jeremiah Smith is a name that college football fans will remember for years to come.
As the playoffs unfold, the anticipation builds. What more can this young phenom achieve? With his remarkable skills and determination, the sky is the limit for Jeremiah Smith. The world of college football is watching, and the future looks incredibly bright for this rising star.
