Jeremiah Smith Reacts to Ohio State Losing OC Chip Kelly to Las Vegas Raiders
The news that Ohio State’s offensive coordinator, Chip Kelly, would be leaving for the Las Vegas Raiders sent shockwaves through the Buckeyes’ football program. Kelly’s departure marked the end of a highly successful tenure, one that had revitalized the offense and helped position Ohio State as one of the top programs in the nation. For players like wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, a top recruit for Ohio State, the news came as a surprise and raised questions about the immediate future of the offense and the team’s overall direction.
Jeremiah Smith, a five-star wide receiver out of Florida and one of the most sought-after recruits in the 2025 class, was expected to be a major part of Ohio State’s offense moving forward. Having committed to the Buckeyes with the expectation of working under Kelly’s innovative offensive schemes, Smith’s reaction to the news was one of both disappointment and uncertainty. However, his reaction also revealed a deeper level of maturity and focus on the bigger picture.
Initial Reaction: Disappointment and Uncertainty
For a player like Smith, who has spent years developing his game and making his college decision based on certain factors, Kelly’s departure initially left a sense of unease. The offensive coordinator played a pivotal role in Smith’s decision to join Ohio State. Kelly’s track record of developing explosive offenses and his experience with high-powered systems were among the primary reasons why Smith felt the Buckeyes were the right fit for him.
In an interview shortly after the news broke, Smith expressed his disappointment, acknowledging that he had built a strong rapport with Kelly and appreciated the coach’s offensive philosophies. “It’s definitely disappointing to see Coach Kelly leave, especially since he was a big part of why I came to Ohio State,” Smith said. “I was looking forward to learning from him and becoming a key piece in his offense. But I also understand that coaching changes happen, and I trust that Ohio State will find a new coach who will continue to help me develop and put the team in the best position to succeed.”
Focus on the Future: Support for the Program
Despite the initial disappointment, Smith’s reaction quickly shifted toward a focus on the future. Understanding the nature of college football and the constant changes in coaching staffs, Smith expressed confidence that Ohio State’s leadership would find a suitable replacement to maintain the high level of success the program has enjoyed. “Ohio State is a powerhouse, and no matter who the next offensive coordinator is, I know they’ll continue to develop players and stay competitive,” Smith stated. “I’m focused on my role and helping the team achieve greatness, no matter what changes happen.”
Smith also emphasized his excitement about the opportunity to work with new coaches, showing a positive attitude toward the situation. His maturity and adaptability were evident, as he recognized that success in college football comes not only from a consistent coaching staff but also from the ability to adjust to new circumstances.
Reaffirming His Commitment
For Buckeye fans, one of the most important aspects of Smith’s reaction was his reaffirmation of his commitment to Ohio State. Despite the coaching change, Smith made it clear that he was still all-in on the Buckeyes and excited to be a part of the program’s future. “I’m committed to Ohio State, and I can’t wait to get to work. We have a great group of guys here, and we’re going to continue to push for championships,” Smith remarked.
Smith’s reaction reflected a sense of resilience and a broader perspective on what it takes to succeed at the highest levels of college football. As Ohio State looks to move forward from Chip Kelly’s departure, it’s clear that the program’s future remains in good hands with players like Jeremiah Smith who are ready to adapt and make the most of whatever challenges lie ahead.
Looking Ahead: A New Era for Ohio State
With Kelly gone, Ohio State’s leadership will now turn its attention to finding a new offensive coordinator capable of continuing the program’s tradition of success. For Smith, this transition will likely present new opportunities to showcase his skills in a new system. Whether it’s an internal promotion or an outside hire, the next offensive coordinator will have big shoes to fill. However, with players like Smith leading the way, the Buckeyes’ offensive future looks bright, regardless of who takes the reins.
As Ohio State adjusts to the changes, it’s clear that Smith’s focus will remain on his development and helping the team reach its full potential. The next chapter in Ohio State football is about to unfold, and Smith is ready to take it on with determination and confidence.
