Can't Wait For Saturday Whatever the price, Ohio State star Smith is worth it

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Apr. 12—***

When is the last time I saw a college football player as dominant at his position as Ohio State receiver Jeremiah Smith is now?

That would be 38 years ago in 1988, The player was Oklahoma State running back Barry Sanders, who ran for 269 yards against Iowa State on the way to the Heisman Trophy and a Pro Football Hall of Fame career.

There are no guarantees Smith will win the Heisman, though I like his chances. And reaching the Pro Football Hall of Fame is not easy, but again, barring injury, he should be on his way.

Smith is the subject of a terrific story in The Athletic by Manny Navarro and Cameron Teague Robinson where they discuss how much Smith would be worth if he entered the transfer portal.

Smith was quoted by another outlet, On3, that schools were expected to over more than $10 million for his services.

If it happened, and he seems set on staying at Ohio State with fellow Heisman candidate Julian Sayin, no amount would be too too high. And no amount would surprise me. He is a generational football player, LeBron James in cleats.

Smith has reportedly been pursued by hometown Miami, but has turned the Hurricanes down. Wise choice. He is beloved in Columbus and with a Heisman and another national title will go on the school's Mount Rushmore along with two-time Heisman winner Archie Griffin and any other two of the endless stars from the school.

Smith will almost certainly be the first pick in the 2027 draft. It he stays at Ohio State, he will have some company with him in New York.

In the 2026 draft, Ohio State has five players attending the ceremony and could set a record for most players selected in the Top 10.

Oh, good news, Illinois fans, Smith is going to play your favorite team in the Big Ten opener Sept. 26 at Columbus.

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