Jeremiah: “I’m excited to deliver an amazing performance.”

Jeremiah Smith Eager to Shine in National Championship After Quiet Cotton Bowl Showing

 

After a subdued performance in Ohio State’s Cotton Bowl victory over Texas, wide receiver Jeremiah Smith expressed his excitement about the upcoming national championship game. Repeatedly, during media day in Atlanta, Smith emphasized, “I can’t wait to put on a show.”

 

Smith, who previously sent a warning to Oregon before the Rose Bowl, issued a similar challenge to Notre Dame, advising them to “be ready” if they rely on man-to-man defense. While data from TruMedia shows the Irish use man coverage on 57.6% of opponent dropbacks, Smith feels it’s closer to 80% based on his film study.

 

Notre Dame’s strategy, however, won’t easily change. “What they do, they do very, very well,” said Ohio State wide receivers coach Brian Hartline. “For them to change up what they do would be kind of silly. They’re great players, and so are we. That’s what makes a game like this so exciting.”

 

Smith welcomes the challenge of one-on-one matchups with Notre Dame’s cornerbacks, especially after Texas doubled and tripled him in the Cotton Bowl, limiting him to one catch for 3 yards. Despite the frustration, Smith viewed his role as a decoy as essential to Ohio State’s victory.

 

In his freshman season, Smith has racked up 71 receptions, 1,227 yards, and 14 touchdowns, with standout performances against Tennessee and Oregon. Whether Notre Dame contains him or not, Smith remains focused on the ultimate goal: winning.

 

“All I want to do is win,” Smith said. Achieving victory would fulfill a lifelong dream for the young player.

 

“Playing on a national stage and competing for a title is something I’ve dreamed of since I was a kid,” he shared. “I’m just happy to be here. I can’t wait to put on a show Monday.”