Ohio State fans in Columbus witnessed a milestone performance on Saturday as senior wide receiver Jeremiah Smith turned the Buckeyes’ home game against Illinois into a showcase of pure dominance. Smith hauled in eight catches for 150 yards and three touchdowns in the first half alone, setting a new Ohio State record by becoming the first player in program history to surpass 3,000 career receiving yards.
Record‑setting first half
Smith’s early impact was evident when quarterback Julian Sayin connected on a back‑shoulder throw that Smith turned into a 20‑yard gain, putting the Buckeyes on the board. A second spectacular play saw Smith sprint down the right side, beat the safety, and run circles around the defender before diving into the end zone. The replay showed his left foot landing in bounds just before his right foot crossed the white paint, a display of body control that left NFL scouts “very, very excited,” according to the game commentary.
Continued dominance in the second half
After a brief Illinois surge that narrowed the lead to 35‑19, Smith continued to pile up yards and scores. He caught a slant for a 16‑yard gain early in the third quarter, then added a short smoke‑screen pass for a 13‑yard gain, moving his total to 179 yards. Smith capped the night with a fourth touchdown, an out‑route catch that brought his total to 217 yards and four scores – the fifth Buckeye ever to record four receiving touchdowns in a single game.
Coach Day praises work ethic and character
Head coach Ryan Day lauded Smith’s effort, saying, “He just played a great game. It goes back to his work ethic and the way he practices every day. A lot of these guys look up to him; he’s a great example not only for the young players in our program but for a whole generation of kids that watch him. He’s special. Dominant, even.” The coach’s remarks underscore the broader impact Smith has on the Ohio State community, offering a role model for aspiring athletes and reinforcing the values of dedication and perseverance.
Implications for the Buckeyes
Smith’s performance not only secured a comfortable 42‑19 win but also positioned Ohio State favorably in the Big Ten race. With the Illini unable to contain the Buckeyes’ offense—running only five plays in the third quarter while holding the ball for nearly 15 minutes—Ohio State demonstrated both offensive firepower and defensive resilience. The victory adds momentum as the Buckeyes continue their push for conference supremacy and a potential College Football Playoff berth.
For Ohio State supporters, Smith’s historic night serves as a reminder of the program’s tradition of excellence and the bright future ahead for the team. As the season progresses, fans will be watching closely to see how Smith and the Buckeyes build on this landmark achievement.
Original reporting: All Sports Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
