Jeremiah Smith Sends Strong Message About Michigan Ahead of 2025 Season

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Cole Sullivan | Last updated Jul 1, 2025 10:54 AM ET

While the Ohio State Buckeyes are coming off a dominant run in the College Football Playoff that culminated in their first national championship since 2014, their inability to beat rival Michigan in recent years continues to loom large.

For the first time since the late 19th century, Michigan has defeated Ohio State in four consecutive matchups — including a stunning upset in the final week of the 2024 regular season that few saw coming.

But with the 2025 season fast approaching, the Buckeyes are focused on the future. Star wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, who had a breakout freshman year, sent a clear message about Michigan — and even made a bold prediction for his next two seasons in Columbus.

"I'm not a sore loser, but I hate losing, and losing to that team up north was pretty crazy," Smith said. "In the end, I think it really helped us play the way we did in the playoffs. But I didn't want to go to Ohio State and lose to that team up north. I just hate them. Just something about them. For the next two years, I promise you, I will not lose to them. I can't lose to them in the next two years."

Smith arrived in Columbus as a five-star freshman and quickly proved he was ready for the spotlight, playing with the poise and consistency of a seasoned veteran — especially when Ohio State needed him most on the biggest stages.

He finished the season with 76 receptions for 1,315 yards and 16 total touchdowns, averaging an impressive 17.3 yards per catch. Smith was electric in the College Football Playoff, recording five touchdowns across two games, including multi-touchdown performances against both Tennessee and Oregon.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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