Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith enters Week 9 as the Heisman Trophy favorite at every sportsbook after a sensational start to the 2026 season. Through seven games, Smith has recorded 52 catches for 984 yards and 12 touchdowns, accounting for 43.5% of the Buckeyes' receiving yards and 54.5% of their receiving touchdowns. He trails only Oregon State freshman Jesse Legree nationally in receiving yards and touchdowns.
Quarterback uncertainty clouds Smith's path
The biggest threat to Smith's Heisman candidacy is Ohio State's sudden quarterback situation. Starter Julian Sayin, who had developed a strong connection with Smith over two years, may be done for the season after suffering an injury late against Indiana. Head coach Ryan Day has not announced whether freshman Luke Fahey or sophomore Tavien St. Clair will start against USC, or if both will play. A new quarterback lacks the rhythm and trust Sayin had with Smith, potentially leading to a more conservative offensive approach and fewer targets for the star receiver.
How Smith could lose the Heisman
A young quarterback tasked with managing the offense may limit downfield throws to Smith, especially with Ohio State's elite defense allowing a conservative game plan. A two-quarterback system would further complicate Smith's ability to establish timing. Additionally, Smith's best performances came early in the season, and Heisman voters often weight late-season production more heavily. The Buckeyes' remaining schedule lacks top-10 opponents, with only No. 20 Northwestern currently ranked, reducing opportunities for a signature late-season moment.
How Smith could win the Heisman
If Smith maintains high production with a new quarterback, it could enhance his candidacy. The coaching staff's directive to "find No. 4 and throw it to him" may be emphasized even more with an unproven passer. Smith's ability to bail out a young quarterback in tight coverage makes him an ideal safety valve. The remaining schedule offers favorable matchups: USC's porous defense, an Oregon team struggling offensively, and a Northwestern secondary that could struggle with Smith's perimeter skills. Meanwhile, Smith's main competitors, Miami's Darian Mensah and Malachi Toney, may split votes and have only one marquee game left against Notre Dame on Nov. 7.
The upcoming game against USC will be an early test. If Ohio State is unwilling to throw against the Trojans, Smith's Heisman hopes could take a hit. A big performance, however, would solidify his status as the favorite heading into the final stretch of the season.
