In the world of college football, Ohio State is a powerhouse, and today we're diving into the latest news and insights surrounding the Buckeyes. From transfer rankings to all-star teams, and even a little wedding gossip, let's explore the fascinating developments in the world of Ohio State football.
Transfer Portal Powerhouse
Ohio State has made some impressive moves in the transfer portal, with four key players ranking among the top 100 transfers for the 2026 season. Defensive tackle James Smith, defensive end Qua Russaw, and safeties Earl Little Jr. and Terry Moore are all set to join the Buckeyes, bringing a wealth of experience and talent to the team. These transfers are crucial for Ohio State, especially with the need to replace key defensive starters.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the dynamic these players bring to the team. Smith and Russaw, former teammates, preferred to stay together, which could create a strong bond and understanding on the field. Little and Moore, both versatile safeties, could provide a much-needed boost to the secondary.
The Jeremiah Smith Phenomenon
Now, let's talk about Jeremiah Smith, the Ohio State star who is generating a lot of buzz. Dane Brugler of The Athletic ranked Smith as the number one wide receiver in the 2027 NFL draft class, and the praise is well-deserved. Smith's skill set is almost perfect, with rare explosiveness, dominant catching ability, and a high football IQ.
Personally, I think what sets Smith apart is his versatility. He can play multiple positions and has the physical traits and work ethic to excel in each role. His production over his freshman and sophomore seasons is a testament to his talent, and I can't wait to see how he develops further, especially with his focus on improving his yards after the catch.
All-21st Century Team Snub
Moving on to a bit of a controversial topic, Fox Sports' Joel Klatt created an All-21st Century College Football Team, and surprisingly, no Ohio State players made the cut. With a remarkable record since 2000, it's hard to believe that the Buckeyes didn't have a single player on this list. However, Klatt did have two Buckeyes as finalists, Jeremiah Smith and Caleb Downs, which shows the talent and impact these players have had.
This raises a deeper question about the criteria for such all-star teams. Are we solely focusing on individual achievements, or should team success also be a factor? It's an interesting debate, and one that highlights the subjective nature of these rankings.
Off-Field News
Lastly, let's take a quick look at some off-field developments. Former Buckeye Emeka Egbuka tied the knot with Delaney Matriano, and linebacker Steele Chambers popped the question to his girlfriend, Samantha Long. It's always heartwarming to see these athletes finding love and starting new chapters in their lives.
In conclusion, Ohio State football continues to make headlines, both on and off the field. With an impressive transfer class, a rising star in Jeremiah Smith, and a bit of snubbing on the all-star team, the Buckeyes are certainly a team to watch. As we head into the 2026 season, I'm excited to see how these transfers and young talents shape the future of Ohio State football.
