Jeremiah Smith Warns Notre Dame About Man Coverage, Looks to Shine in National Title Game
Ohio State’s five-star freshman wide receiver, Jeremiah Smith, hasn’t taken long to make his presence felt on the national stage. As the Buckeyes gear up for their highly anticipated national championship matchup against Notre Dame, Smith has issued a warning to the Fighting Irish defense: think twice before running man-to-man coverage.
“If Notre Dame runs man coverage against us, they better be ready,” Smith told reporters. “I’m looking forward to putting on a show in the national title game.”
The bold proclamation underscores the confidence of the 6-foot-3, 200-pound phenom, who has been pivotal to Ohio State’s success this season. Despite being a first-year player, Smith has showcased the kind of talent that justifies his status as one of the most highly touted recruits in the Class of 2024. With elite speed, precise route-running, and an imposing physical frame, Smith has proven to be a nightmare for opposing defenses.
Smith’s transition from high school to the college ranks has been seamless. Playing alongside veteran quarterback Kyle McCord, the dynamic wideout has thrived in head coach Ryan Day’s offense, which has long been known for producing NFL-caliber receivers. In his freshman campaign, Smith has hauled in 67 receptions for 1,132 yards and 12 touchdowns, quickly becoming one of McCord’s favorite targets.
Against Georgia in the College Football Playoff semifinal, Smith delivered a breakout performance, catching eight passes for 156 yards and two touchdowns, including a spectacular 48-yard grab that left Bulldogs defenders scrambling. His ability to win one-on-one matchups was on full display, making him a focal point of Notre Dame’s defensive preparations.
Notre Dame enters the championship game with one of the top defenses in the country, allowing just 17.3 points per game this season. Anchored by a talented secondary led by All-American cornerback Benjamin Morrison, the Irish have thrived in shutting down opposing passing attacks. However, Smith’s remarks suggest that Ohio State believes it has the upper hand when it comes to individual matchups.
“Man coverage is something we take pride in beating,” Smith explained. “We’ve worked all year on creating separation and winning our routes. When I line up, I don’t see anyone across from me that can stop me.”
For Notre Dame, the challenge will be containing not only Smith but also the rest of Ohio State’s receiving corps, which includes All-Big Ten standout Marvin Harrison Jr. and Emeka Egbuka. Double-teaming Smith could leave openings for Harrison and Egbuka, forcing the Irish to pick their poison.
Notre Dame defensive coordinator Al Golden acknowledged the difficulty of defending Ohio State’s star-studded offense.
“Jeremiah Smith is a special talent, no doubt about it,” Golden said. “But our guys have been preparing for this moment all season. It’s going to take discipline, communication, and relentless effort to slow them down.”
The national championship game will provide Smith with the biggest stage of his young career, and he’s eager to make the most of it. The Miami native has been dreaming of this moment since he first picked up a football and is relishing the opportunity to showcase his skills under the brightest lights.
“I’ve worked my whole life for this,” Smith said. “This is what you dream about as a kid – playing in the national championship and making a difference for your team. I can’t wait to go out there and put on a show.”
Smith’s confidence has rubbed off on his teammates, who see his bravado as a reflection of Ohio State’s collective mindset. Harrison Jr. praised Smith’s growth throughout the season, calling him “a superstar in the making.”
The Ohio State-Notre Dame national championship showdown has all the makings of a classic, with two storied programs vying for college football supremacy. For Jeremiah Smith, the game represents not just a chance to win a title but also an opportunity to cement his status as one of the sport’s brightest stars.
As kickoff approaches, all eyes will be on the Buckeyes’ explosive offense and whether Notre Dame’s defense can answer Smith’s challenge. One thing is certain: if Notre Dame dares to run man coverage, Jeremiah Smith will be ready. And, if his words are any indication, he plans to make them pay.
“This is my moment,” Smith said. “And I’m not letting it slip away.”