It really shouldn’t surprise anyone, but Ohio State star wide receiver Jeremiah Smith just landed on another preseason watch list, this time for the Fred Biletnikoff Award. Frankly, it is about time. Anyone with eyes knows this dude probably should have won it his freshman and sophomore years, and the committee has some explaining to do after last season.
The Snub That Still Hurts
Let’s be real: Smith has been getting absolutely robbed. This isn’t just about making a watch list, it is about past injustices. His freshman year in 2024, he got voted on, but somehow never even made it as far as a finalist. Why? Apparently, voters just hesitated to award a freshman. Seriously? You see the talent, you award the talent, simple as that. Then last season, in 2025, the disrespect continued. He was one of three finalists, but he *lost out*! USC’s Makai Lemon took home the prize instead. The original writer even stated he voted for Smith. That says everything you need to know about how egregious that decision was. It feels like the award committee is making him jump through hoops when his play speaks volumes.
Unstoppable, Unavoidable Numbers
Look, we do not need to rehash every single highlight. Everyone knows Smith is a walking cheat code, catching footballs with his teeth and leaping tall buildings. But let us talk about the cold, hard facts that prove he is unstoppable. Over the last two years, this guy has flat-out dominated college football. He leads all receivers with an insane 2,558 receiving yards and a jaw-dropping 27 touchdown catches. And get this: he put up those monster numbers despite constant double-teaming and bracketed coverage. Plus, he even missed some time because of injury and in those blowout games where he barely played. It is mind-boggling when you think about it. The dude is a human highlight reel who keeps piling up stats no matter what. He has already been recognized on almost every other preseason accolade you can think of, including multiple All-American teams and other watch lists. This Biletnikoff nomination just adds to a mountain of honors he has already earned.
The Clock’s Ticking For December 11
So, can Smith finally get what is rightfully his? Ohio State has had only modest success with this award, with Terry Glenn winning in 1995 and Marvin Harrison Jr. in 2023. Smith has the chance to become just the third Buckeye to hoist that trophy. We are going to find out if he can when the award is announced on December 11, during ESPN’s Home Depot College Football Awards Show. The pressure is on the voters to make this right. He has got a very good shot at being honored, assuming he stays healthy. Let’s hope they finally give this man his due.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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