What's Happening?
Jeremiah Smith, a standout wide receiver for Ohio State, recently disclosed that his decision to join the Buckeyes was significantly influenced by the struggles of the Miami Hurricanes during his recruitment
period. Smith, a native of Miami Gardens, was the highest-ranked wide receiver recruit according to 247Sports. He committed to Ohio State in December 2022 after Miami ended their season with a disappointing 5-7 record. Smith mentioned that had Miami been performing better at the time, he would have likely chosen to play for the Hurricanes. Despite this, Smith opted for Ohio State, where he has become a key player. The Hurricanes, under head coach Mario Cristobal, have since improved and are participating in the College Football Playoff for the first time, having defeated Texas A&M to reach an 11-2 record.
Why It's Important?
Smith's revelation highlights the impact of a college football program's performance on recruitment decisions. For Miami, this underscores the importance of maintaining a competitive team to attract top talent. The Hurricanes' recent resurgence under Cristobal could enhance their appeal to future recruits, potentially altering the landscape of college football in the region. For Ohio State, securing a player of Smith's caliber has bolstered their roster, contributing to their success in the College Football Playoff. This situation illustrates the broader dynamics of college football recruitment, where program success, coaching stability, and player development opportunities play crucial roles in attracting elite athletes.
What's Next?
As Miami continues to improve under Cristobal, the program may become a more attractive option for top recruits, potentially challenging other powerhouse programs in the recruitment arena. For Ohio State, maintaining their competitive edge will be crucial to continue attracting high-caliber players like Smith. The upcoming College Football Playoff games will be a test for both programs, with Miami aiming to prove their resurgence is sustainable and Ohio State looking to capitalize on their strong recruitment to secure a national title.
