Jeremiah Smith needed just one half to drop eight catches for 151 yards and two touchdowns on Ball State, reminding everyone why Ohio State has championship expectations this season. But what he said next might be even more impressive than that ridiculous stat line: “Let young guys play.” That five-word message, delivered to coach Ryan Day, shows exactly why this Ohio State team is built different.
Smith Didn’t Just Dominate; He Sent a Message
Seriously, this dude came out swinging. Smith, the junior receiver, opened his season with a sick 48-yard touchdown grab, securing the ball against his helmet before somehow completing the catch with just one hand. Then he snagged another score on a three-yard reception in the back of the end zone. By halftime, he had already done more than enough, leading a Buckeyes offense that racked up 671 total yards, with 434 through the air. Quarterback Julian Sayin slung for 320 yards and three touchdowns, even adding his first college rushing score. Devin McCuin added six catches for 97 yards and a touchdown, while Bo Jackson and Ja’Kobi Jackson each powered for 83 rushing yards and a score.
The Buckeyes held Ball State to a measly 165 total yards and punched in touchdowns every single quarter. This wasn’t just a win; it was a total dismantling, exactly what you expect from the nation’s top-ranked team. Coach Day easily could have let Smith chase bigger numbers, but he pulled his biggest star to protect him. And Smith, a legitimate leader, embraced it.
Unselfishness Is the Ultimate Weapon
Smith’s willingness to step aside is massive because Ohio State is headed for a monster game next week, visiting No. 5 Texas on September 12. Day himself said Smith “understands we have a monster game next week.” Ball State couldn’t even consistently challenge the Buckeyes’ passing game, but Texas has the talent to put serious pressure on Sayin and force tight throws. That’s where Smith comes in. He’s the ultimate answer to those problems. His combo of size, unreal body control, and pure explosiveness can absolutely erase good coverage. Even when a defensive back is in perfect position, Smith can turn a contested pass into a defining play that flips the game.
What the box score couldn’t show us from that Ball State blowout was Smith’s response to being pulled. Everyone knows he’s one of college football’s most gifted players, period. But his five-word reaction, encouraging the coaching staff to give younger players a shot, shows exactly why Ohio State trusts him as one of their most important leaders too.
Ohio State needs Smith at full strength and leading the charge in Austin. His numbers after Week 1 are straight-up frightening, but his unselfish leadership is a signal to the whole country about this team’s championship potential. Next week, against No. 5 Texas, the real test begins, and with Smith leading by example, the Buckeyes are ready to show everyone what they’re made of.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by The Sporting News.
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