Skull Session: Steve Sarkisian Creates Rat Poison for Ohio State, Brandon Inniss Calls Ryan Day “The Best Coach in the Nation,” and Jeremiah Smith’s All-Time Great Freshman Yea
As the college football world continues its annual journey through the playoffs, heated rivalries and storylines are making waves. This week’s “Skull Session” takes a close look at three key developments: Steve Sarkisian’s comments that could serve as motivational fuel—or “rat poison”—for Ohio State, Brandon Inniss’ high praise for Ryan Day, and the incredible freshman campaign of Jeremiah Smith. Let’s dive in.
Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian, never one to shy away from bold remarks, recently made statements that some are calling indirect shots at Ohio State. Sarkisian discussed the importance of physicality in winning championships, emphasizing that finesse and talent alone won’t cut it. While he didn’t name Ohio State directly, his comments seemed aimed at programs known for their high-powered offenses, often perceived as less physical compared to teams like Alabama or Georgia.
“We know what it takes to win championships,” Sarkisian said in a press conference. “It’s not just about speed and throwing the ball around. It’s about controlling the line of scrimmage and imposing your will on every snap.”
For Ryan Day and the Buckeyes, such remarks might serve as bulletin-board material. Ohio State, coming off a dominant playoff performance, has shown it can compete with and outmatch the most physical teams in the nation. With Sarkisian’s words circulating, expect Ohio State to take the field with added intensity, eager to prove that their blend of skill and toughness can’t be questioned.
Ohio State wide receiver Brandon Inniss has been a standout player since arriving in Columbus, and his admiration for head coach Ryan Day is clear. In a recent interview, Inniss went on record to call Day “the best coach in the nation,” citing his ability to connect with players, develop talent, and consistently contend for championships.
“Coach Day is more than a coach—he’s a mentor,” Inniss said. “He understands what it takes to win at the highest level, but he also cares about us as people. That’s rare in this business.”
Inniss’ comments reflect the culture that Day has cultivated at Ohio State, which has long been a key to the program’s success. Under Day’s leadership, the Buckeyes have consistently been among the top programs in the nation, combining elite recruiting with player development. His ability to manage the pressures of a premier program while maintaining strong relationships with his players sets him apart from his peers.
Inniss has quickly become a fan favorite, showcasing his skills on the field while embracing the Buckeye culture. His praise for Day only reinforces the trust and confidence players have in their head coach, a critical factor as Ohio State navigates the challenging waters of the College Football Playoff.
Few players enter college football with the expectations that accompanied Jeremiah Smith, and even fewer manage to exceed those expectations. The Ohio State freshman wide receiver has done just that, delivering an all-time great first season that has fans and analysts buzzing.
Smith has been a revelation for the Buckeyes, racking up over 1,200 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns in his debut campaign. His blend of size, speed, and route-running precision has made him nearly impossible to cover, and his ability to make clutch plays in critical moments has already earned him comparisons to Ohio State legends like Cris Carter and Michael Thomas.
“Jeremiah is special,” said offensive coordinator Brian Hartline. “His work ethic, football IQ, and natural ability are off the charts. He’s only scratching the surface of what he can become.”
Smith’s breakout performance has been instrumental in Ohio State’s playoff run, providing quarterback Kyle McCord with a reliable and explosive target. Whether it’s stretching the field with deep routes or making tough catches in traffic, Smith has proven he can do it all.
Perhaps most impressive is Smith’s composure under pressure. Despite the bright lights and high stakes of college football, he has consistently risen to the occasion, delivering highlight-reel plays that leave fans and opponents in awe.
### **Looking Ahead**
As Ohio State prepares for its next playoff test, the program is riding a wave of momentum fueled by players like Brandon Inniss and Jeremiah Smith and the leadership of Ryan Day. Steve Sarkisian’s remarks might serve as extra motivation, but the Buckeyes have shown they don’t need external factors to drive their success.
With a roster stacked with talent and a coaching staff that knows how to get the best out of its players, Ohio State is poised to continue its march toward a national championship. The combination of proven leaders and emerging stars makes the Buckeyes one of the most dangerous teams in the country, and they seem determined to silence any lingering doubts about their physicality, preparation, and championship mettle.
If the Buckeyes do lift the trophy, it will be a testament to the program’s ability to adapt, evolve, and thrive in the face of challenges. And in the years to come, players like Inniss and Smith will be remembered not just for their individual brilliance, but for their contributions to a team and culture that embodies what it means to be elite in college football.