The Ohio State Buckeyes enter the 2026 season as the front-runners for the national championship. Despite an unbeaten regular season last year, they fell short of this ultimate goal.
In the Big Ten Championship Game, the Buckeyes lost 13-10 to the Indiana Hoosiers, who went on to clinch the national title. Subsequently, they faced a 24-14 defeat against the Miami Hurricanes in the Cotton Bowl, the team that finished as the national runner-up.
The conclusion of the season with two consecutive losses was disappointing for the Buckeyes. Wide receiver Jeremiah Smith is especially keen on turning that narrative around this season.
Smith Eyes Miami for Redemption
Originating from Miami Gardens, Smith feels the sting of the Cotton Bowl loss. During an interview with Bud Elliot from the “Cover 3 Podcast,” when discussing the Buckeyes’ “revenge tour,” Smith expressed a clear target.
“Gotta be the hometown team, Miami. Gotta be,” Smith stated firmly. “I heard it a lot every time I went back home. Gotta be Miami. Gots to.”
Smith’s performance in that defeat was notable. He tallied seven catches for 157 yards, including a 59-yard reception, and scored a touchdown. However, the game also featured two interceptions from quarterback Julian Sayin, one of which was a crucial 72-yard pick-six. This contributed to an upset loss, despite the Buckeyes entering as 9.5 point favorites.
Commitment to Ohio State
Smith remains committed to Ohio State, choosing to stay in Columbus despite enticing $10 million offers from other teams.
“I always wanted to be at Ohio State,” Smith affirmed. “It would be dumb for me to leave Ohio State and go to another team when I have the best offensive line in the country, the best quarterback in the country, the best coaches in the country.”
Smith is likely in his final season at Ohio State, as he is a top prospect for the 2027 NFL Draft. However, his immediate focus remains on avenging past losses.