Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith clearly has Kirk Herbstreit’s attention. The longtime ESPN analyst made that very clear during an appearance on “SportsCenter.”
Smith has been outstanding for the Buckeyes this season, recording at least 70 receiving yards in each of the first five games. Overall, he has 23 receptions for 453 yards and six touchdowns. The 6-foot-3 wideout also had a 19-yard rushing touchdown in a 38-7 victory over Michigan State.
Even though it’s still incredibly early in Smith’s career, he’s receiving so much praise from the media. In fact, Herbstreit actually compared him to one of the greatest wide receivers of all-time, Terrell Owens.
“He’s a unique freshman,” Herbstreit said, via On3. “You know, we had Ryan Williams a couple weeks ago explode onto the scene in college football with his ability to make plays against Georgia, and the other freshman obviously it’s been Jeremiah Smith. Now he’s been doing it against Iowa and some other teams.
“This kid is a true freshman. Ryan Williams is more explosive, body control. This guy, to me, is like a young T.O. Just his ability to use his hands, his ability to do yards after the catch, because of his physicality, he can go downfield. So again, they haven’t played anybody the way they will as the season progresses.”
That’s high praise for Smith, but he has earned it.
Smith has a chance to validate Herbstreit’s claim on Saturday night when Ohio State takes on Oregon in a potential College Football Playoff preview.
Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. ET on NBC.
Related: Ohio State Ended Impressive Oregon Streak Before Their Game This Weekend