Buckeyes’ Star Wideout Expresses Disappointment Over OC’s Exit
State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith shared a heartfelt reaction to the news of offensive coordinator Chip Kelly leaving for the Las Vegas Raiders. As the Buckeyes begin their quest for a second consecutive national championship, they will now have to adjust without a key member of their coaching staff.
Smith, who is heading into his sophomore season after a standout freshman campaign, was visibly upset upon hearing the news. The First-Team All-American took to Twitter to share his reaction:
“Nooooo💔”– @Jeremiah_Smith1
Despite Smith’s disappointment, head coach Ryan Dayis expected to find a capable replacement for Kelly. However, losing an offensive coordinator who played a major role in Smith’s success is understandably tough for the rising star.
Jeremiah Smith’s Historic Freshman Season
Smith’s freshman year at Ohio State was nothing short of remarkable. The Miami Gardens nativerecorded 76 receptions for 1,315 yards and 15 touchdowns, cementing himself as one of the top receivers in college football.
His dominance carried into the College Football Playoff, where he delivered back-to-back stellar performances in the first two rounds. While he had a quieter semifinal, Smith made a crucial impact in the National Championship Game against Notre Dame, catching five passes for 88 yards and a touchdown.
One of his biggest moments came on a third-and-long play, where he hauled in a 56-yard receptionthat all but secured Ohio State’s ninth national title. This game-changing play reflected a shift in Ohio State’s offensive approach under Chip Kelly.
Chip Kelly’s Impact on Ohio State’s Offense
At the start of the season, Ohio State’s offense was built around a strong rushing attack led by TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins, widely regarded as the nation’s top backfield duo. However, an overreliance on the run game was a key factor in the Buckeyes’ loss to Michigan.
Following that defeat, Kelly and Ryan Day adjusted their strategy, placing greater emphasis on their elite receiving corps. This shift allowed Smith to become a bigger focal point, while quarterback Will Howard gained more control over the passing game. The result was a dominant stretch of performances that saw Ohio State steamroll its way to a national championship.
The Buckeyes opened the College Football Playoff with a blowout win over No. 7 Tennessee, followed by a revenge victory against No. 1 Oregon in the Rose Bowl. They then defeated No. 3 Texas before claiming the title with their win over No. 5 Notre Dame.
Smith Still a Heisman Contender in 2025
Although losing Chip Kelly is a tough blow for Smith, he remains a strong Heisman Trophy candidateheading into the 2025 season. The Buckeyes are expected to start the year ranked No. 1, with an exciting season opener against No. 2 Texas.
Smith will have an opportunity to make an immediate statement and continue his rise as one of college football’s top players. While adjusting to a new offensive coordinator, his talent and work ethic suggest he’ll remain a dominant force for Ohio State.
