Ryan Day unpacks why Jeremiah Smith is an NFL Draft unicorn
The WR is rewriting the rules at Ohio State. The young receiver continues to dominate, and Ryan Day revealed the traits that make him a unique talent and a serious Heisman Trophy contender.
J eremiah Smith ’s talent is unique, and right now, he is one of the top favorites to win the Heisman Trophy in a season where he continues to prove that he is one of the biggest stars in all of college football. The Ohio State wide receiver has already recorded nearly half of the production he posted throughout the entire previous campaign and remains one of the top offensive weapons for the undefeated Buckeyes.
Ryan Day reveals what makes Jeremiah Smith different
Given the situation, Ohio State head coach Ryan Day did not hesitate to explain what sets his star receiver apart, especially as Smith is projected to be one of the top selections in the NFL Draft .
“What separates him is the mindset, the discipline, and then the skill set,” Day said.
Day highlighted that Smith possesses all the physical and technical qualities needed to become one of the best players in the country.
“It’s hard to discredit the fact that he’s really big and really strong and really fast and powerful, and has really good hand-eye coordination,” he added.
The coach also shared the advice he constantly gives his young star.
“We talk about it all the time. You can’t control how much talent you have. You can only control your discipline and skill.”
A season with elite numbers
After surpassing 1,200 receiving yards in each of his first two seasons, Smith is on pace to break all of his career marks in 2026.
Through just four games, he has recorded 33 receptions for 617 yards and seven touchdowns, while averaging 18.7 yards per catch, the highest mark of his career.
In 2025 , he finished with 87 receptions, 1,243 yards and 12 touchdowns , while during his freshman season in 2024, he posted 76 catches, 1,315 yards and 15 touchdowns — numbers that remain the best of his career in terms of yardage and scoring.
With Ohio State undefeated and once again in contention for a national championship, Smith will face another major test this Saturday when the No. 6 Buckeyes travel to take on the No. 14 Iowa Hawkeyes . The matchup could further strengthen his Heisman Trophy candidacy and continue establishing him as one of the best wide receivers in the country.
