Ohio State delivered a commanding performance, ending the Oregon Ducks’ unbeaten season with a 41-21 victory. Quarterback Will Howard spearheaded the Buckeyes’ offense, throwing for 319 yards and three touchdowns. Freshman wide receiver Jeremiah Smith shone brightly, setting a new program record with 187 receiving yards.
The Buckeyes dominated early, racing to a 31-0 lead by the second quarter. Ohio State capitalized on Oregon’s offensive struggles and defensive lapses while their defense put relentless pressure on Oregon quarterback Dillon Gabriel. This pressure significantly hindered Gabriel’s performance, helping the Buckeyes secure a decisive 20-point win. Ohio State is now set to face the Texas Longhorns in the Cotton Bowl on January 10.
Before the Cotton Bowl, an amusing exchange occurred during a January 3 interview. Jeremiah Smith, acting as a reporter, asked head coach Ryan Day about quarterback Will Howard’s performance against Oregon. Smith asked how Day planned to maintain Howard’s confidence and momentum moving forward. Day humorously replied, “We just keep throwing it to you,” referring to Smith’s dual role as a standout wide receiver. The room erupted in laughter.
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Jeremiah Smith has been pivotal to Ohio State’s success this season, leading the team with 1,224 receiving yards and 14 touchdowns on 70 receptions. Against Oregon, Smith was unstoppable, hauling in seven passes for 187 yards and two touchdowns. Most of his production came in the first half, with five catches for 161 yards and two scores.
Before the game, Smith confidently warned Oregon’s defense about their man-to-man coverage strategy. He stated, “Why are y’all really playing man-on-man against us, or against me, I should say? When we see man [coverage] against any of our receivers, we’re going to take a shot down the field.” Smith backed up his words with a stellar performance, including a 45-yard touchdown reception in the first quarter.
After the game, Smith expressed the team’s determination, saying, “We’re just hungry. We’re trying to win it all and that’s what we’re going to do, for sure.” To achieve their ultimate goal, Ohio State must first overcome the challenge posed by Texas in the upcoming Cotton Bowl.