Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith enters Week 9 as the Heisman Trophy favorite at every major sportsbook after a sensational start to the 2026 season. Through seven games, Smith has 52 receptions for 984 yards and 12 touchdowns, leading the Big Ten in receiving and trailing only Oregon State freshman Jesse Legree nationally in yards and scores. He accounts for 43.5% of the Buckeyes' receiving yards and 54.5% of their receiving touchdowns, despite drawing the primary focus of every opposing defense.
The biggest threat to Smith's candidacy is the sudden uncertainty at quarterback. Starter Julian Sayin, who developed a strong connection with Smith over two years, suffered a late-season injury against Indiana and may be done for the year. Head coach Ryan Day has not yet named a starter for Saturday's game at USC, with freshman Luke Fahey and sophomore Tavien St. Clair both in the mix — or possibly a two-quarterback system.
How the QB change could hurt Smith
A new quarterback will lack the rhythm and trust Sayin had with Smith, especially on contested throws. A more conservative offensive approach from Day could limit Smith's downfield targets, and a two-quarterback rotation would force him to adjust to two different release points and timing. Heisman voting historically weights late-season performance heavily, and Smith's best game — 8 catches, 164 yards, and a touchdown at Texas — came in a loss. With no top-10 opponents remaining (only No. 20 Northwestern is ranked), he may lack a signature late-season moment.
How Smith can still win
If Smith maintains elite production with an unproven quarterback, it could enhance his narrative. The Buckeyes' remaining schedule offers favorable matchups: USC's porous secondary, an Oregon defense that has been solid but faces an inept offense, Northwestern's creative attack that struggles on the perimeter, a reeling Nebraska team, and a traditionally defensive Michigan game. Meanwhile, Smith's primary competitors — Miami teammates Darian Mensah and Malachi Toney — risk splitting votes and have only one national-stage opportunity on Nov. 7 against Notre Dame.
Saturday's game at USC will provide the first real test. If Ohio State is unwilling to throw against the Trojans' vulnerable defense, Smith's Heisman case could take a major hit. A big performance, however, would solidify his status as the clear favorite heading into December.
