Jeremiah Smith creates Ohio State’s Mount Rushmore, omitting legendary figures to stake his claim among Buckeyes greats, signaling his confidence and ambition to leave a lasting mark on Buckeyes history.
In the storied history of Ohio State football, certain figures have become immortalized—players, coaches, and leaders whose impact transcends generations. Names like Archie Griffin, Eddie George, Troy Smith, and others have etched their legacies into Buckeye lore. Yet, in a bold and unconventional move, wide receiver Jeremiah Smith recently crafted his own version of Ohio State’s Mount Rushmore, intentionally omitting some of these legendary figures to stake his claim among the Buckeyes greats. This act is more than a simple list; it is a declaration of confidence, ambition, and a desire to carve out his unique place in Ohio State history.
This essay explores the significance of Jeremiah Smith’s decision, what it reveals about his mindset, the cultural context of such a bold statement, and the broader implications for his career and the Ohio State football legacy.
The Significance of Ohio State’s Mount Rushmore
Mount Rushmore, in the American consciousness, symbolizes the collective memory of greatness—monuments honoring presidents and icons who shaped the nation. Similarly, Ohio State’s football history is rich with legendary figures whose contributions have defined eras, set standards, and inspired generations.
Names like:
- Archie Griffin – The only two-time Heisman Trophy winner in history.
- Eddie George – A dominant running back and Heisman finalist.
- Troy Smith – A Heisman Trophy winner and national champion quarterback.
- Cris Carter and Randy Moss – Legendary wide receivers who revolutionized the position at Ohio State.
- Jack Tatum and Orlando Pace – Defensive and offensive stalwarts who made indelible marks.
These figures are etched into Ohio State’s athletic mythology, serving as benchmarks of excellence. To assemble a Mount Rushmore of Buckeyes greatness is to recognize the very best, the icons who have shaped the program’s identity.
But Jeremiah Smith’s decision to craft his own version—one that omits or reimagines these icons—serves as a radical statement. It’s an act of self-assertion, signaling that he aspires not only to join the pantheon but to redefine the narrative of Ohio State football.
The Context of Jeremiah Smith’s Boldness
Jeremiah Smith, a highly talented wide receiver, has garnered attention for his exceptional athletic ability, route running, and football IQ. As he enters his pivotal years at Ohio State, he is aware of the rich history surrounding the program. Yet, instead of simply aligning himself with the established legends, Smith’s act of creating his own Mount Rushmore signifies a desire to stand apart, to be recognized not just as a part of Ohio State’s history but as a defining figure in its future.
This move reflects a broader cultural trend among young athletes who seek to carve their own identity, challenge tradition, and make bold statements. It’s a form of cultural rebellion, confidence, and ambition—an assertion that he is not content to be merely part of the story but aims to be a central chapter.
Moreover, Smith’s act can be seen as a response to the competitive nature of college football, where players are constantly vying for recognition, legacy, and influence. By creating his own Mount Rushmore, he stakes his claim to greatness, implying that he is capable of redefining the standards of excellence at Ohio State.
The Act of Omitting Legendary Figures: Signaling Confidence and Ambition
Omitting legendary figures from Ohio State’s history is a deliberate and provocative act. It’s a statement that challenges the status quo and expresses confidence in his own potential. This approach serves multiple purposes:
- Reasserting Individual Identity: By selecting his own list, Smith emphasizes that he is forging his own path, independent of the shadow cast by past legends.
- Expressing Ambition: The act suggests that he believes he can achieve greatness comparable to, or surpassing, those he omits. It’s a declaration of confidence that he has the talent, work ethic, and mindset to leave a lasting legacy.
- Stirring Engagement and Conversation: Such a bold move sparks discussion among fans, analysts, and teammates, elevating his profile and reinforcing his presence as a key figure in Ohio State’s future.
- Challenging Expectations: By doing so, Smith demonstrates that he is not content with mere participation; he aims to be a transformative figure who redefines what it means to be a Buckeye legend.
This act can also be interpreted as a strategic move in the highly competitive landscape of college football, where individual branding and legacy-building are increasingly vital. Smith’s willingness to challenge tradition underscores his confidence that he can become a defining player in Ohio State’s history.
The Broader Implications for Smith’s Career
Jeremiah Smith’s decision to craft his own Mount Rushmore reflects his ambitious mindset. It’s a clear message to coaches, teammates, and fans that he aspires to be among Ohio State’s all-time greats—if not the greatest.
Confidence and Self-Belief: Smith’s act shows he possesses the self-assurance needed to take risks and set high standards for himself. He believes in his ability to perform at an elite level, to make game-changing plays, and to influence the program’s trajectory.
Aiming for Legacy: By consciously positioning himself as a future Buckeye legend, Smith signals that he is committed to working tirelessly to achieve that status. His actions and performances on the field will be judged against his own high standards and the legacy he seeks to build.
Leadership and Influence: His bold stance can inspire teammates, signaling that he’s unafraid to challenge conventional narratives and push boundaries. Such confidence can foster a culture of excellence and ambition within the team.
Potential Risks and Rewards: While boldness can attract criticism or skepticism, it can also propel a player into the spotlight and motivate extraordinary effort. Smith’s willingness to stake his claim publicly indicates he’s prepared to back it up with performance.
The Cultural and Psychological Dimensions
Smith’s act also taps into deeper cultural and psychological themes. Athletes who challenge tradition often do so from a place of high confidence and self-awareness. They recognize the weight of history but choose to define their own legacy rather than conform to it.
This act of self-creation is rooted in a belief that greatness is not merely inherited but earned through effort, innovation, and self-assertion. Smith’s decision to omit legends from his list is a form of asserting agency over his narrative—an act of ownership that underscores his desire to be recognized not just as a product of Ohio State but as a creator of its future.
Psychologically, such acts can serve as motivation, fueling an athlete’s pursuit of excellence. By publicly declaring his ambitions, Smith commits himself to the rigorous work required to fulfill them, transforming a symbolic gesture into a tangible goal.
The Future: Will Jeremiah Smith Live Up to the Hype?
While creating his own Ohio State Mount Rushmore is a bold statement, the true test lies in Smith’s performance on the field. His talent, work ethic, leadership, and ability to perform under pressure will determine whether he can realize his ambitions.
If Smith continues to develop and produce game-changing plays, he could indeed find himself among Buckeyes legends in the future. His confidence and boldness may serve as catalysts for his rise, but sustained excellence and consistent performance are essential.
Moreover, his act of omission underscores a desire to redefine what it means to be a Buckeye great. Instead of resting on the laurels of past legends, he seeks to forge a new legacy—one built through relentless effort, innovation, and self-belief.
In essence, Jeremiah Smith’s bold act is both a declaration and a challenge. It signals that he is not content to be a footnote in Ohio State’s storied history but aims to be a central figure shaping its next chapter.
Jeremiah Smith’s creation of an Ohio State Mount Rushmore—omitting legendary figures to stake his claim—is a powerful statement about confidence, ambition, and self-identity. It challenges traditional notions of legacy, asserting that greatness is earned and defined individually. By doing so, Smith positions himself as a future Buckeye legend, committed to leaving a mark that transcends history and redefines Ohio State’s narrative.
This act exemplifies a new generation of athletes who are unafraid to challenge conventions, embrace boldness, and pursue greatness on their terms. Whether Smith will achieve the legendary status he aspires to remains to be seen, but his bold stance undoubtedly cements his place as a compelling figure in Ohio State football’s evolving story.
