Did a former Buckeye QB just call a freshman the GOAT? Will Howard is showering praise on Ohio State’s Jeremiah Smith, predicting he could become the best collegiate player ever. Smith’s freshman year stats were insane, but what does that mean for his sophomore season? Is this hyperbole or a glimpse into a legendary future?
The collegiate football world is abuzz with the remarkable talent of Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, whose exceptional freshman season has already positioned him as a potential all-time great, a sentiment echoed by former teammate Will Howard.
Smith’s debut campaign with the Buckeyes was nothing short of spectacular, where the Hollywood, Florida native showcased an immediate impact. He quickly became a pivotal offensive weapon, hauling in an astonishing 76 receptions for 1,315 yards and 15 touchdowns, playing a crucial role in Ohio State’s national championship contention. His ability to consistently make highlight-reel plays demonstrated a maturity and skill set far beyond his years.
It was during this breakout season that Smith forged a potent connection with then-quarterback Will Howard, now a member of the Pittsburgh Steelers after his selection in the 2025 NFL Draft. Howard, a keen observer of elite talent, recently offered a glowing assessment of Smith during a segment on ‘The Will Howard Show’, expressing profound belief in the young receiver’s future.
Howard’s praise was unequivocal, stating, “It’s a sight to behold man. Watching No. 4 play football… JJ is a freak man.” He further elaborated on Smith’s unparalleled abilities, highlighting his extraordinary catching radius and overall athleticism. The former signal-caller boldly predicted, “I think when it’s all said and done, he could very well be (and I know that’s saying a lot) the best to ever do it.” This high praise underscores the immense expectations surrounding Smith.
The Ohio State program has historically produced an impressive lineage of elite wide receivers since head coach Ryan Day took the helm in 2019, including luminaries like Garrett Wilson, Chris Olave, and Marvin Harrison Jr. However, Howard’s proclamation suggests that Smith possesses a unique combination of tools and potential that could see him ascend even higher than these celebrated names, etching his own indelible mark on collegiate football history.
Despite the burgeoning hype and lofty comparisons, Jeremiah Smith maintains a remarkably grounded perspective. In a recent interview, Smith affirmed his focus, stating, “I come from humble beginnings so I don’t let all that stuff get to my head. Just focus on the main thing, and that’s football and the team.” This mature approach demonstrates his dedication to his craft and the team’s success over individual accolades.
As the new season approaches, all eyes are on Smith and the No. 3 ranked Buckeyes as they prepare for a colossal opening matchup against No. 1 in a highly anticipated contest. Scheduled for Saturday at 12:00 PM on FOX, this game will serve as an early proving ground for Smith and a testament to his continued development and impact on the national stage. The stage is set for another spectacular season from this generational talent.
