- Nick Saban as CFB commissioner? Lane Kiffin thinks it's exactly what college football needs
- Cotton Bowl Tickets 2025: How to buy and prices for Ohio State vs Texas in the CFP semifinal
In the world of college football, few voices carry as much weight as Nick Saban's. The former Alabama head coach, known for his strategic acumen and eye for talent, recently turned his attention to Ohio State's standout freshman wide receiver, Jeremiah Smith.
During an appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, Saban didn't hold back in his praise for Smith, drawing comparisons to one of Alabama's own legends, Julio Jones. According to Saban, Smith possesses the kind of game-changing talent that can tip the scales in crucial moments, making him a key player for Ohio State's championship aspirations.
Related:
- CFP National Championship 2025: Date, start time, location and everything you need to know
- CFP National Championship Halftime Show 2025: Who is performing this year and all the details
- College Football Playoff winners list: check out every National Championship winner updated until today
- College Football Playoff 2024-25: matchups, schedule, dates and everything you need to know
- College Football Playoff 2024-25 dates, how to watch every game, kickoff times
Saban highlighted Smith's ability to create mismatches on the field, noting how difficult it is for defenses to contain such a dynamic player. With 1,224 receiving yards and 14 touchdowns in his freshman season, Smith has already proven his mettle. His standout performances, particularly in high-stakes games like the Rose Bowl against Oregon, underscore his potential to lead Ohio State to national glory.
A challenge to be taken towards a title
Ohio State's Cotton Bowl clash with Texas will be another significant test for Smith. Saban's confidence in Smith's abilities suggests that Ohio State fans have every reason to be optimistic. If Smith continues to deliver on the big stage, he could very well be the catalyst that propels Ohio State to a national title.
"I don't think there's any question about it," Saban told McAfee and Chuck Pagano, who was a guest on the sho. "When you have a mismatch player like that, Chuck (Pagano) knows this, when you're a coach and you know you've got a go-to guy and they can't guard the guy, from a quarterback standpoint I mean who makes who better? The receiver makes the quarterback better, the quarterback makes the receiver better."
In a landscape where every play can define a season, having a player like Jeremiah Smith can make all the difference. As Saban wisely notes, it's these exceptional talents that turn great teams into champions.