Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith showcased his team-oriented mindset during the Cotton Bowl, despite being targeted by opposing defenses. In the Buckeyes’ 28-14 victory over Texas, Smith only managed one catch for three yards. However, his presence allowed teammates to shine, ultimately securing a spot in the College Football Playoff national championship against Notre Dame.
“I’m not a selfish player. It’s not just all about me,” Smith stated during a media session ahead of the championship game. “It’s about the whole team as well. If I’ve got to be a decoy this game, all I want to do is win. If that’s what it takes, I’ll do it. It doesn’t matter.”
As Ohio State gears up to face Notre Dame, a crucial question emerges: Will Notre Dame employ man-to-man coverage against Smith and his teammate Emeka Egbuka? This strategy has benefited the Fighting Irish in the past, but both receivers bring a unique skill set to the game.
“At the core of it, we’re wide receivers so we’d love the opportunity to be able to just go out and be one-on-one,” Egbuka explained. He added that the coaching staff would ensure they are prepared for whatever defensive schemes Notre Dame may deploy.
Smith enjoyed a standout season, earning second-team AP All-American honors after finishing with 1,227 receiving yards and 14 touchdowns. He made history by breaking Cris Carter’s records for receptions, yards, and touchdowns for a freshman at Ohio State.
In a lighter moment, Notre Dame quarterback Riley Leonard reminded himself to stay humble with a wristband that reads “You suck.” Sent by his mother, the message serves as a personal motivator. Leonard, who transferred from Duke and has had a successful season with 19 touchdown passes and 16 rushing touchdowns, explained that growing up in Fairhope, Alabama, made him crave a challenge.
“I didn’t really face a lot of adversity,” he said. “I lived a blessed life, and I just wanted someone to tell me I sucked to give me a little extra motivation.” His mother took his request to heart, ensuring it became a family tradition.
While the national championship game takes place in the South, it marks the second consecutive year without a Southern team competing for the title. Ohio State, however, could give the Big Ten its second consecutive championship, following Michigan’s victory last year. Ohio State linebacker Cody Simon acknowledged the importance of the moment for their conference but insisted that the focus remains on their performance rather than the surrounding narratives.
“It’s a great opportunity for our conference,” Simon noted, emphasizing the need for his team to concentrate on their best effort.
Meanwhile, Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love expressed his confidence in his knee heading into the championship game. He reflected on needing a full half in the Orange Bowl to regain his confidence but is now ready to play at his best.
“I’m 100% and ready to go,” Love declared, signaling his eagerness for the upcoming challenge.
