Jeremiah Smith etched his name into Big Ten history on Saturday, surpassing the conference’s all-time receiving touchdown record despite a surprising 30-18 defeat for the No. 2 Ohio State Buckeyes against USC. The senior wide receiver scored his 40th career receiving touchdown in the fourth quarter, officially breaking the mark of 39 set by Michigan legend Braylon Edwards in 2004. While Edwards achieved the milestone in his 44th collegiate game, Smith accomplished the feat in just his 37th appearance, underscoring the unprecedented efficiency of his production in Columbus.
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Smith’s statistical dominance extends far beyond this single record, as he has already claimed the Ohio State program’s all-time leads in receptions, receiving yards, and receiving touchdowns. Entering the 2026 campaign, the Buckeyes’ star has amassed 62 catches for 1,067 yards and 13 touchdowns in just eight games. These numbers not only highlight his immediate impact on the field but also solidify his position as a primary contender for the Heisman Trophy, with analysts noting that his consistency and volume place him in rare company among modern college football elites.
The milestone serves as a defining moment in Smith’s legacy, proving that his historic season is more than just a statistical anomaly. By breaking a record that stood for two decades, Smith has established himself as the definitive receiver in Big Ten history. As the Heisman race intensifies, Smith’s ability to deliver high-impact performances, even during a loss, reinforces his status as one of the most valuable assets in college football and a future first-round NFL draft prospect.
Source: Bleacher Report
