Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith achieved two significant milestones in the Buckeyes’ 42-19 victory over Illinois on Saturday, solidifying his status as a top Heisman Trophy contender. Smith became the first Ohio State player in program history to reach 3,000 career receiving yards and set a school record with four touchdown receptions in a single game, tying the program’s single-game TD mark.
During the contest, Smith recorded 217 receiving yards on 12 receptions, averaging 18.1 yards per catch. His performance followed a previous career-best outing against Ball State and Texas, where he compiled 16 receptions, 315 yards, and three touchdowns across two games. The Buckeyes’ passing game, led by quarterback Julian Sayin, has consistently targeted Smith as the team’s top receiver.
Smith’s latest performance vaulted him to the top of Heisman Trophy odds, with reports indicating his odds improved to +1200 ahead of the Illinois game. He is now considered a leading candidate alongside players such as Miami’s Malachi Toney and Ole Miss quarterback Trinidad Chambliss. Ohio State’s offense, which outscored opponents 101-22 in its last two games, faces its next major test against Iowa on October 3.
Smith’s rise comes after Ohio State’s early-season loss to Texas, which briefly stripped the Buckeyes of their No. 1 ranking in the AP Top 25. Despite the setback, Smith’s contributions have been pivotal in Ohio State’s resurgence, including a 59-3 rout of Kent State where he posted 85 receiving yards without a touchdown. His consistency has drawn comparisons to Ohio State’s recent first-round NFL draft picks at wide receiver, including Garrett Wilson, Chris Olave, and Marvin Harrison Jr.
The Buckeyes’ receiving corps has been a cornerstone of their offensive success, with Smith’s historic achievements adding to the program’s reputation for producing elite talent. Ohio State’s next opponent, Iowa, ranks among the nation’s most defensively stout teams, setting up a potential high-stakes matchup for Smith and the Buckeyes.