Jeremiah Smith’s five-word message makes Ohio State’s scary opener even better

In the Ohio State Buckeyes' dominant 56-3 victory over Ball State, junior receiver Jeremiah Smith made a significant impact with eight catches for 151 yards and two touchdowns before leaving the game. Coach Ryan Day praised Smith for his restraint, saying he encouraged the coaching staff to give younger players a chance, particularly against a higher-ranked opponent like Texas on September 12.

The Buckeyes finished with a record-setting 671 yards of total offense, including a team-high 434 passing yards from Julian Sayin. While Ball State's defense struggled against Ohio State's passing game, Texas's talent and ability to apply pressure on Sayin could pose a significant challenge. Smith's decision to sit out the second half showcased his leadership and understanding of the team's needs, highlighting his role as both a top-tier player and an important leader for Ohio State's championship aspirations.