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ATLANTA — Wide receiver Jeremiah Smith from Ohio State showcased a commendable team-oriented mindset despite facing heightened defensive scrutiny during the Buckeyes’ recent victory over Texas in the Cotton Bowl, part of the College Football Playoff semifinals.
Although Smith only managed a single reception for three yards due to the extra focus on him, his limited impact on the stat sheet paved the way for his teammates to shine in the 28-14 triumph, which secured Ohio State a spot in the national championship game against Notre Dame on Monday night.
“I consider myself a team player. I understand it’s not all about individual glory,” Smith remarked during media day for the championship. “If I need to act as a decoy to help the team win, then I’m all for it. All I desire is a victory, and I’ll do whatever it takes, regardless of my personal stats.”
A crucial point of discussion leading up to the championship clash concerns whether Notre Dame will employ a man-to-man defense against Ohio State’s group of receivers. This has proven to be a successful tactic for the Fighting Irish, but players like Smith and Emeka Egbuka present unique challenges compared to typical receivers.
“Ultimately, we are wide receivers, and we relish the chance for one-on-one matchups,” Egbuka commented. “However, regardless of their coverage schemes, our coaching staff will devise an effective game plan.”
Smith earned recognition as a second-team All-American, finishing the season with impressive statistics of 1,227 receiving yards and 14 touchdowns. Notably, he broke Cris Carter’s long-standing freshman records at Ohio State for receiving yards, catches, and touchdown receptions.
In a lighter note surrounding Notre Dame quarterback Riley Leonard, a humorous yet motivating message can be found on his wristband. The navy script reads: “You suck,” a memento sent to him by his mother, which serves as a playful reminder of humility.
Leonard, who transitioned from Duke and proved his capability by throwing for 19 touchdowns while rushing for 16, explained the reasoning behind wearing the wristband stems from his upbringing in Fairhope, Alabama, where he enjoyed considerable success without facing much adversity.
“Everyone constantly praised my abilities, which became tiring at times,” he shared. “I experienced a blessed life, but I desired someone to hold me accountable and spur me on with a bit of tough love.”
This idea resonated with his mother, who took it a step further by inscribing his high school locker with the same phrase, and the tradition has continued.
As the national championship approaches, it’s notable that, despite the game being held in the South, no Southern teams are competing in the final for a second consecutive year. Ohio State now has a chance to secure a second consecutive national title for the Big Ten, following Michigan’s previous victory, which broke Georgia’s title-winning streak.
Ohio State linebacker Cody Simon expressed pride in representing the conference as they focus on their performance rather than conference rivalries. “This is a tremendous opportunity for our conference,” Simon stated. “My concentration lies solely on our team delivering its finest performance without dwelling on external narratives.”
Meanwhile, Jeremiyah Love of Notre Dame has expressed regained confidence in his knee after needing a strong performance in the Orange Bowl before feeling ready to perform at his best. In the recent playoff game against Penn State, he had 11 carries for 46 yards and scored a touchdown, indicating his resurgence.
“I would say everything fell into place for me during the second half of that game. I felt great, and the touchdown was a significant moment,” Love reflected on his previous performance, noting the mental aspect of regaining trust in his knee.
Preparing for the championship game, Love asserted he feels completely ready. “I’m 100% and primed for action this week,” he affirmed.
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