Smith was named the Rose Bowl’s Offensive Player of the Game.
Ohio State continued its dominant College Football Playoff run with a commanding 41-21 victory over Oregon in the Rose Bowl. The game not only solidified the Buckeyes’ strength but also showcased the talent of their young stars. Six freshmen took the field in the win, marking a historic moment for the program.
While Eddrick Houston contributed 14 defensive snaps, Mylan Graham saw limited action on offense, and Jaylen McClain, Payton Pierce, and Bryce West played key roles on special teams, it was wide receiver Jeremiah Smith who stole the spotlight.
Smith Delivers a Historic Performance.
Leading up to the Rose Bowl, Smith was confident in his ability to perform on the big stage—and he backed up his words with an unforgettable game. On Ohio State’s third offensive play, quarterback Will Howard connected with Smith for a 45-yard touchdown, setting the tone early.
The star freshman wasn’t done. In the second quarter, Smith found himself wide open after outmaneuvering Oregon’s defense, hauling in a 43-yard touchdown pass that pushed Ohio State’s lead to 24-0 with just over 10 minutes remaining in the half.
By the end of the night, Smith had set an Ohio State freshman record with **187 receiving yards on seven catches**, including two touchdowns. His performance also etched his name in Big Ten history, as he broke Purdue’s Rondale Moore’s record for the most receiving touchdowns by a freshman, finishing the season with 14.
Additionally, this was Smith’s fifth **100-yard receiving game**, making him just the 12th player in Ohio State history to achieve that feat in a single season. His dominance earned him the **Rose Bowl Offensive Player of the Game** award, further cementing his reputation as one of college football’s brightest young stars.
A Bright Future for Ohio State’s Freshman Class.
Smith’s record-breaking night was the highlight, but Ohio State’s overall freshman class also made its presence felt. With Houston, Graham, McClain, Pierce, and West all contributing in various roles, the Buckeyes showcased the depth and talent that could keep them in championship contention for years to come.
The win over Oregon not only extended Ohio State’s playoff momentum but also sent a clear message: **The Buckeyes’ young talent is ready to dominate the college football landscape.** With Smith leading the charge, Ohio State’s future looks brighter than ever.
