Ohio State’s Jeremiah Smith Reflects on Miami Recruitment Decision

Jeremiah Smith, a standout wide receiver for the Ohio State Buckeyes, revealed in a recent media session that he might have chosen to play for the Miami Hurricanes if the team had experienced greater on-field success during his high school years. The 2025 Cotton Bowl media availability provided a platform for Smith to reflect on his recruitment journey, sparking curiosity among Hurricanes fans regarding what could have been.

During the press event, Smith stated, “I’d probably have ended up going to Miami if things were on the right track then and there.” This comment came after he was asked how Miami’s performance might have influenced his decision to commit to Ohio State. The implication was clear: had the Hurricanes achieved more victories or participated in high-profile games like the Cotton Bowl during his college selection process, he might have opted for Miami.

Smith’s High School Background and Decision Factors

Smith, hailing from Miami Gardens, Florida, attended Miami Central Senior High School before wrapping up his prep career at Chaminade-Madonna College Preparatory. Throughout his high school years, Miami’s struggles on the field were evident. While the Hurricanes recorded a 10-win season in 2024, they had not achieved double-digit wins in a season since 2017, and aspirations for a national title seemed distant.

In contrast, Ohio State has maintained a consistent trajectory towards championship contention over the past decade. The Buckeyes have become synonymous with success, making national championships a regular goal. This stark contrast in team performance played a significant role in Smith’s decision to join Ohio State.

Since arriving in Columbus, Smith has made an impressive impact on the field. In just two seasons, he has earned All-American honors twice, caught a remarkable 26 touchdown passes, and was recognized as the Rose Bowl MVP. Notably, Smith was part of the team that secured the 2024 National Championship, further validating his decision to leave his home state.

What Lies Ahead for Smith and the Buckeyes

As Ohio State prepares to face Miami in the Cotton Bowl, Smith’s comments resonate with both optimism and nostalgia. While he acknowledges the allure of playing for the Hurricanes, his achievements at Ohio State have established him as a premier talent in college football. The Buckeyes are widely regarded as “Wide Receiver U,” a title that underscores their tradition of developing elite pass-catchers.

For Miami fans, Smith’s admission may evoke a sense of missed opportunity, but it also highlights the ongoing challenges the program faces in reclaiming its former glory. The Hurricanes are striving to regain their competitive edge, and the outcome of the Cotton Bowl could serve as a pivotal moment in their quest for relevance in college football.

In summary, while Jeremiah Smith’s path might have diverged had Miami’s fortunes been different, his current trajectory at Ohio State illustrates the impact of recruitment choices in the highly competitive landscape of college football. As he prepares to compete against the team he once considered, Smith embodies the complexities and narratives that define the sport.