Ohio State Buckeyes Seek Redemption After Last Season’s Setbacks

The Ohio State Buckeyes are starting the 2026 season with high expectations, aiming to capture the national championship. Last year’s campaign fell short despite an impressive unbeaten regular season. The team faced a setback in the Big Ten Championship Game, losing a close 13-10 match to the Indiana Hoosiers, who went on to become national champions. Following that, the Buckeyes were defeated 24-14 by the Miami Hurricanes in the Cotton Bowl, who also emerged as the national runners-up.

These consecutive losses ended the season on a sour note, and no one feels that more than star wide receiver Jeremiah Smith. When questioned about which loss stung the most or which team he most seeks to even the score with, Smith’s response is clear.

‘Gotta Be the Hometown Team’

Smith hails from Miami Gardens, and it’s no surprise he heard plenty about the Cotton Bowl loss to Miami. During an interview on the “Cover 3 Podcast” with Bud Elliot, Smith was direct about the Buckeyes’ “revenge tour” focus this season. “Gotta be the hometown team, Miami. Gotta be,” Smith remarked, expressing familiarity with the topic each time he returned home. “Gotta be Miami. Gots to.”

Smith’s performance during that bowl game was strong, as he completed seven receptions for 157 yards, including a memorable 59-yard catch and a touchdown. The game’s turning points included two interceptions thrown by quarterback Julian Sayin, one of which resulted in a 72-yard return for a touchdown, contributing to the unexpected defeat of the Buckeyes, who were 9.5-point favorites for the championship repeat.

With a renewed vigor, the Buckeyes have rearmed their roster for another title pursuit. Jeremiah Smith, despite receiving offers totaling $10 million to play elsewhere, remains committed to Ohio State. “I always wanted to be at Ohio State,” he stated. “It would be dumb for me to leave Ohio State and go to another team when I have the best offensive line in the country, the best quarterback in the country, the best coaches in the country.”

Smith also mentioned this might be his last season at Ohio State, given his likely selection as a top pick in the 2027 NFL Draft. Despite this, his present focus remains clear, with a strong intent for redemption this season.