No one recruits a better position group than Brian Hartline recruits wide receivers. However, an argument could be made for Tim Walton right now with the talent he’s bringing to the Ohio State football program. Regardless, Hartline is the best receivers coach in the country in terms of recruiting and there’s no debate.
Jeremiah Smith is the latest gem that Hartline has brought to the Buckeyes. Not only is he the number-one receiver recruit in the country for the 2024 class, but he’s the number-one player overall in that class. Smith is simply sensational. With Marvin Harrison Jr. gone, Smith has a chance to get some serious playing time.
Jeremiah Smith might already be an elite Ohio State football player
Ohio State has a wealth of talent at the wide receiver position. Emeka Egbuka is the clear number-one guy. After that, it’s pretty open. Carnell Tate is likely the number two, but that’s not set in stone. The third receiver position is still wide open. In my view, that will be between Smith and last year’s number-one receiver recruit Brandon Inniss.
Smith is just so smooth in and out of his breaks. His hands are super soft and if it’s anywhere near him, he’s got an excellent shot to catch the ball. He’s got speed to go by guys and fluidness to get separation on shorter routes. Quite simply put, he’s a nightmare cover for defensive backs. He could start day one for 13 other Big Ten programs.
The question is how well Smith can block in the run game at such an early age. Hartline makes his receivers be excellent blockers in the run game. That’s one of the most underrated aspects of what makes Ohio State’s receivers so great. If he is a great blocker right out of the gate, I don’t see any way how they can keep him off the field.
I’m really excited to see what Smith can do as an Ohio State football player. I think he’s going to be truly special.
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