Former Ohio State coach Urban Meyer has defended wide receiver Jeremiah Smith following the Buckeyes' 41-28 loss to the Oregon Ducks on November 7, 2026, at Ohio Stadium in Columbus. Meyer described Smith as "the perfect teammate" in response to scrutiny over the freshman's behavior during or after the game.
Ohio State fell to Oregon in a high-scoring matchup at home. The Buckeyes' offense included a touchdown connection that saw wide receiver Devin McCuin, wearing number 3, high-five Smith, who wears number 4, after a score. Despite the loss, Meyer's comments highlight support for the young receiver amid criticism.
The game marked a significant non-conference defeat for Ohio State early in the 2026 season. Oregon's 41 points underscored the Ducks' offensive potency against a traditionally strong Buckeyes defense.
