Jeremiah Smith Reveals ‘Next Up’ WR for Ohio State Buckeyes

WR for Ohio State Buckeyes ‘Next Up’ is Revealed by Jeremiah Smith

Introduction: The Ohio State Legacy of Wide Receivers

Ohio State University has long been recognized as one of the premier breeding grounds for elite wide receivers in college football. The program’s history is rich with standout pass-catchers, and it continues to develop some of the most dynamic and exciting talents in the country. From legends like Cris Carter and Michael Jenkins to recent stars like Terry McLaurin, Garrett Wilson, and Chris Olave, the Buckeyes have consistently produced top-tier wide receivers who make an immediate impact in the NFL. As the 2024-2025 season progresses, there is a new player that fans and analysts alike are beginning to talk about: Jeremiah Smith.

Jeremiah Smith, a highly sought-after recruit, has been making waves since his arrival at Ohio State. Known for his exceptional athleticism, natural pass-catching ability, and football IQ, Smith’s potential has been evident from the moment he stepped onto the field. Recently, the buzz surrounding Smith reached a fever pitch when he revealed that he believes he is the “next up” in the long and storied tradition of Ohio State wide receivers. The revelation has sparked a significant amount of excitement among Ohio State fans, who are eagerly awaiting to see what Smith can do in his first season with the Buckeyes.

This article will dive into Jeremiah Smith’s rise to prominence, his background, his expectations for the future, and what it means for the Ohio State program. We will explore his journey to Ohio State, what makes him stand out among his peers, and why his statement about being “next up” may not be just empty words but a real promise of things to come.

The Path to Ohio State: Jeremiah Smith’s Recruiting Journey

Jeremiah Smith’s journey to Ohio State was one marked by high expectations and the admiration of coaches, analysts, and scouts alike. Smith hails from Chaminade-Madonna College Preparatory School in Hollywood, Florida, where he became one of the most sought-after wide receiver prospects in the country. From the moment he began his high school career, it was clear that Smith was destined for greatness.

A standout athlete in both football and track and field, Smith’s combination of speed, size, and strength made him a major recruiting target for top college programs. During his high school career, he posted eye-popping numbers, racking up over 2,000 receiving yards and 30 touchdowns, all while displaying a consistent ability to beat defenders with both his deep-threat speed and his impeccable route-running ability. It wasn’t long before the nation’s top college football programs began to take notice of his skills.

Although numerous schools pursued Smith, Ohio State emerged as a favorite for the elite wide receiver. The program’s track record of developing wide receivers into future NFL stars was a major selling point. After a highly competitive recruiting process, Smith ultimately chose Ohio State, committing to join a wide receiver room that already included some of the best young talents in college football.

Ohio State head coach Ryan Day and wide receivers coach Brian Hartline were key figures in Smith’s decision, emphasizing their commitment to developing players and their proven ability to cultivate talent at the wide receiver position. Hartline, in particular, is widely regarded as one of the best wide receivers coaches in the country, having developed players such as Garrett Wilson, Chris Olave, and Jaxon Smith-Njigba—all of whom went on to have successful careers in the NFL.

The decision to join a program that has consistently produced first-round wide receivers wasn’t one that Smith took lightly. However, as he himself has revealed, he believes that his journey at Ohio State will be one of growth and opportunity, and that he’s ready to carry the mantle as the next great wide receiver for the Buckeyes.

Jeremiah Smith’s Skills and Potential: What Makes Him ‘Next Up’

Jeremiah Smith’s belief that he is “next up” in the Ohio State wide receiver legacy is grounded in his exceptional skill set and natural abilities. What sets Smith apart from many of his peers is the combination of his physical attributes and his mental approach to the game.

Size and Speed

At 6’3” and 190 pounds, Smith is an imposing physical presence on the field. His height gives him an advantage in contested catches, particularly in jump-ball situations or in the red zone, where his size and vertical leap make him a difficult matchup for cornerbacks. However, what truly sets him apart is his speed. Smith is a dynamic downfield threat who possesses the kind of top-end speed that can stretch the defense and make him a constant threat for big plays. His ability to separate from defenders on deep routes is reminiscent of some of the greats who have come through Ohio State, and he has the potential to be one of the most dangerous deep threats in college football.

Route Running and Football IQ

While Smith’s physical traits certainly catch the eye, it is his route-running ability that elevates him to the next level. His sharp, precise routes are a result of his high football IQ and his work ethic. Smith has the ability to create separation with his quickness off the line of scrimmage and his ability to change direction smoothly. This allows him to be effective on a variety of routes, from slants and quick outs to fades and post routes.

Smith’s ability to read defenses and adjust his routes accordingly is another key component of his skill set. At Ohio State, he will be working under one of the best wide receivers coaches in the country in Brian Hartline, who has a reputation for developing route technicians. Smith’s potential in this area is enormous, as he has the foundational skills to master a wide variety of routes, allowing him to be a versatile weapon in Ohio State’s offense.

Hands and Catching Ability

One of Smith’s most impressive attributes is his catching ability. He has excellent hands and is able to make difficult catches in a variety of situations, whether it’s a contested catch, a tough catch in traffic, or a one-handed grab. His concentration and ability to track the ball in the air set him apart from many other young receivers.

Additionally, Smith’s ability to catch passes on the move and turn upfield quickly gives him the potential to break away for big plays after the catch. His vision and elusiveness make him dangerous once he has the ball in his hands.

The Ohio State Wide Receiver Room: What Does Jeremiah Smith Bring to the Table?

Jeremiah Smith’s arrival at Ohio State comes at a time when the Buckeyes are in a period of transition at the wide receiver position. With stars like Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Garrett Wilson, and Chris Olave leaving for the NFL, there is a gap for young talent to step up and take on larger roles in the offense.

Smith is stepping into a wide receiver room that includes some of the top young talent in the country. Players like Emeka Egbuka and Julian Fleming have been making waves and will undoubtedly be key contributors in Ohio State’s offense moving forward. However, Smith’s potential to come in and immediately contribute is one of the most exciting aspects of his recruitment.

While Egbuka and Fleming are expected to be the primary receivers, Smith has the opportunity to carve out a significant role for himself early on, especially if he can develop chemistry with Ohio State’s quarterbacks, including Kyle McCord. If Smith can make an immediate impact, there is a chance that he will be the next breakout star in a program that has consistently produced elite wide receivers.

Jeremiah Smith’s Impact on Ohio State’s 2024-2025 Season

Ohio State fans are undoubtedly excited about the potential for Smith to shine in his first season with the Buckeyes. With a talented roster and an experienced coaching staff, Ohio State is poised to make another run at a national championship. Smith’s ability to contribute right away could be a key factor in the team’s success, particularly in the high-powered passing attack that head coach Ryan Day’s offense is known for.

Smith’s versatility and ability to play a variety of roles in the offense could make him an important piece for the Buckeyes in 2024. Whether he lines up as an outside receiver or in the slot, Smith’s ability to create mismatches and be a downfield threat could help open up the offense for others, like Egbuka and Fleming, to also make plays.