Smith Sticks With Ohio State: Hartline, WR Factory

**Jeremiah Smith Solidifies Ohio State Commitment, Spurning Late Efforts from Home State Programs**

**COLUMBUS, OH – December 20, 2023** – In one of the most anticipated announcements of National Signing Day, five-star wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, a cornerstone of Ohio State’s 2024 recruiting class, officially signed with the Buckeyes, putting an end to a furious late push from several premier programs. Smith, hailing from football powerhouse Chaminade-Madonna Prep in Hollywood, Florida, had been committed to Ohio State since December 2022 but found himself at the center of a high-stakes battle in the final weeks leading up to the signing period.

Despite persistent efforts from in-state contenders Florida, Florida State, and Miami, along with national championship contender Georgia, Smith reaffirmed his commitment to the Buckeyes, solidifying their standing among the nation’s top recruiting classes.

At the heart of Smith’s steadfast decision was his strong relationship with Ohio State wide receivers coach Brian Hartline. Smith cited Hartline’s “passion” and the genuine, “family-like” environment he cultivates with his players as paramount factors. “Coach Hartline really connects with his players,” Smith told reporters. “He treats us like family, and his passion for the game and for developing us really stood out.”

Beyond the personal connection, the Buckeyes’ unparalleled reputation as a “wide receiver factory” played a significant role. Ohio State has consistently produced elite NFL talent at the position, a track record that appeals directly to top prospects like Smith. Recent examples include Marvin Harrison Jr., Garrett Wilson, Chris Olave, and Jaxon Smith-Njigba, all high NFL draft picks who have excelled at the professional level. This tradition of excellence provides a clear pathway for aspiring NFL players.

“I want to compete against the best every day,” Smith stated, articulating his ambitions. “Ohio State offers that challenge and the best development to get to the next level. My goal is to win a national championship here and be the next great receiver to come out of this program.”

Smith, universally ranked as one of the nation’s top prospects – holding the No. 1 overall ranking according to On3 Sports, and a consensus top-five recruit across all major services like 247Sports, Rivals, and ESPN – brings a rare combination of size, speed, and elite ball-tracking skills to Columbus. At 6-foot-3 and over 200 pounds, he dominated high school competition, showcasing an ability to make contested catches and create separation. He played a crucial role in Chaminade-Madonna Prep securing four consecutive state championships.

The battle for Smith’s signature intensified significantly in the weeks before December 20. Reports indicated numerous in-home visits from coaches representing Florida, Florida State, and Miami, with Miami, in particular, making a strong final push to keep the local talent home. Georgia also made a late bid, leveraging their recent championship success. However, none were ultimately able to sway Smith from his year-long commitment to the Buckeyes.

Brian Hartline, a former Ohio State wide receiver himself who played in the NFL, has rapidly established himself as one of the premier position coaches in college football. His recruiting prowess, combined with his track record of developing receivers into NFL-ready stars, has made Ohio State a destination for top pass-catching talent.

Smith’s signing is a monumental win for head coach Ryan Day and the Ohio State program, ensuring the pipeline of elite receiving talent continues. He joins an already stacked 2024 Ohio State recruiting class that ranks among the nation’s best, further bolstering their offensive firepower for future seasons and sending a clear message about their continued dominance on the recruiting trail.