"It’s a mismatch": Jeremiah Smith talks on role change next season

Jeremiah Smith was among the most impressive true freshmen in college football during the 2024 season. The five-star wide receiver earned a starting role from Ohio State’s season opener and went on to post a record-breaking freshman campaign with the Buckeyes.

Given his standout performance in 2024, Smith is expected to remain the centerpiece of the Buckeyes’ offense in the upcoming season. However, his role may expand, allowing him to contribute in a more versatile capacity as Ohio State looks to maximize his impact.

Jeremiah Smith could see more time as a slot receiver in 2025. He’s gotten more reps in the slot during spring practices, signaling a potential shift in his usage. According to Pro Football Focus, Smith logged 636 snaps out wide last season, compared to just 133 in the slot.

“It’s a mismatch, for sure, going against safeties and linebackers and stuff like that,” Smith said, per Eleven Warriors. "It would definitely be a mismatch come game time against teams in the season.”

Brian Hartline offers an update on the growth of Jeremiah Smith

Offensive coordinator Brian Hartline gave a glowing update on Smith’s growth as spring camp nears its conclusion. Following a breakout freshman year, Hartline noted that Smith has continued to mature physically and mentally throughout the offseason following their national championship success.

“He’s really young,” Hartline said. “He doesn't operate like that, he operates beyond his years. The techniques and the fundamentals he's chasing, like a lot of the guys, you get to a certain point where you're doing a really good job, you're chasing that one percent, you're chasing that finite growth."

“It's not always seen on film. The individual may feel it, whether it be your base or your technique and the consistency at which you do those things. That's what he's chasing. I think he's chasing football IQ, learning more about the game, defensive structure, [and] anticipation, more than reactionary.”

Jeremiah Smith’s 2024 season was nothing short of impressive. The true freshman burst onto the college football scene with 76 receptions for 1,315 yards and 15 touchdowns, averaging 17.3 yards per catch. His dominant play earned him numerous accolades, including First-Team All-American honors.