Ohio State head coach Ryan Day has never been one to shy away from speaking candidly about his players, but his recent comments on freshman wide receiver Jeremiah Smith took a deeply personal turn that resonated throughout Buckeye Nation. In what many described as an “emotional” confession, Day peeled back the curtain on his true feelings about the young phenom and what he represents to the future of Ohio State football.
During a post-practice media session in Columbus, Day was asked about the progress of Smith, the five-star recruit from Florida who arrived with sky-high expectations. Instead of delivering a typical coach’s assessment focused on stats, development, or work ethic, Day offered a heartfelt reflection on what Smith’s presence means—not just for the team, but for him personally.
“Jeremiah is the kind of kid that reminds you why you get into coaching in the first place,” Day said, his voice noticeably wavering. “It’s not just about winning games or putting up numbers. It’s about shaping young men, helping them chase their dreams, and watching them grow into something bigger than even they imagined.”
Day, who has guided Ohio State through intense highs and tough defeats, explained that Smith’s commitment to the program reignited something in him. He recounted how, during the recruiting process, Smith’s maturity and sense of purpose struck him as unique—even among other elite talents.
“I remember one of the first times we really talked deeply, and I could just
