Ohio State vs. LSU: Wide Receiver U Debate

**Freshman Jeremiah Smith Ignites “WRU” Debate, Firmly Backing Ohio State Over LSU**

COLUMBUS, OH – The perennial, often heated, debate over which college program reigns supreme as “Wide Receiver U” has been reignited with a bold declaration from one of the sport’s brightest young stars. Ohio State freshman wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, a five-star recruit from the 2024 class currently making waves in spring practice, has planted his flag firmly in Columbus, asserting that the Buckeyes now hold the title.

Smith didn’t mince words, directly challenging LSU’s recent dominance in the conversation. “LSU, you know they had their run,” Smith stated, “but I feel like we got the best receiver room in the nation.” His confidence stems from an undeniable pipeline of NFL-ready talent emerging from Columbus, particularly in recent years.

The Buckeyes’ argument received a massive boost in the recent 2024 NFL Draft when Marvin Harrison Jr., a generational talent and Biletnikoff Award winner, was selected as the fourth overall pick by the Arizona Cardinals. Harrison’s departure follows a string of first-round NFL Draft selections from Ohio State’s receiver corps, including Jaxon Smith-Njigba (20th overall to the Seattle Seahawks in 2023), Garrett Wilson (10th overall to the New York Jets in 2022, earning NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year honors), and Chris Olave (11th overall to the New Orleans Saints in 2022). Looking ahead, Emeka Egbuka is widely projected as a high pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, and Smith himself, ranked by many as the top overall recruit in his class, represents the next wave of elite talent. The departure of Julian Fleming, another highly-touted receiver, via the transfer portal also highlights the immense depth within the Buckeyes’ receiver room.

Many attribute this consistent production to wide receivers coach Brian Hartline. A former NFL receiver himself, Hartline has earned a reputation as one of college football’s premier position coaches and recruiters, consistently developing elite talent and attracting top prospects to Ohio State. His coaching philosophy and ability to prepare players for the professional ranks are widely praised.

However, LSU is far from conceding the “WRU” crown. The Tigers boast an equally impressive roster of NFL stars, many of whom are currently dominating the league. Ja’Marr Chase (Cincinnati Bengals, 5th overall in 2021, NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year) and Justin Jefferson (Minnesota Vikings, 22nd overall in 2020, NFL Offensive Player of the Year in 2022) stand out as two of the NFL’s most electric playmakers, both having honed their skills in Baton Rouge. Historically, LSU has also produced stars like Odell Beckham Jr. and Jarvis Landry.

LSU also made a significant statement in the 2024 NFL Draft, sending two of its own receivers into the first round. Malik Nabers was snapped up sixth overall by the New York Giants, and Brian Thomas Jr. went 23rd overall to the Jacksonville Jaguars, both within the top 25 picks. Kayshon Boutte was another LSU receiver drafted recently, by the New England Patriots in 2023.

The debate between these two college football powerhouses for the title of “Wide Receiver U” is clearly still a lively one, fueled by an undeniable track record of producing elite NFL talent. While Jeremiah Smith feels confident in the Buckeyes’ current claim to the throne, the sheer volume of draft picks and professional success from both programs ensures this spirited discussion will continue well into future seasons.