Ohio State Buckeyes Aim for Redemption in 2026 Season

The Ohio State Buckeyes are gearing up for the 2026 season with their eyes set on the national championship. Despite an undefeated regular season last year, they fell short of their ultimate goal.

The Buckeyes lost 13-10 to the Indiana Hoosiers in the Big Ten Championship Game. The Hoosiers went on to win the national championship. Ohio State also faced defeat against the Miami Hurricanes, the national runners-up, with a 24-14 score in the Cotton Bowl.

These back-to-back losses left a lasting impact on the Buckeyes, especially for standout wide receiver Jeremiah Smith. The setbacks have fueled his desire for redemption.

Gotta Be the Hometown Team

Smith hails from Miami Gardens, a fact that added to the sting of the Cotton Bowl loss. Bud Elliot from the “Cover 3 Podcast” inquired about Smith’s thoughts on the team’s “revenge tour” this season. Smith responded without hesitation.

“Gotta be the hometown team, Miami. Gotta be,” he stated, emphasizing his determination. “I heard it a lot every time I went back home. Gotta be Miami. Gots to.”

Smith cannot shoulder the blame for the loss. He recorded seven catches for 157 yards, including one for 59 yards, and a touchdown in that game. Unfortunately, two interceptions by quarterback Julian Sayin, one of which resulted in a 72-yard pick-six, contributed to the upset loss. The Buckeyes entered the game as 9.5-point favorites, hoping to defend their national title.

Despite lucrative offers elsewhere, Smith has committed to another season in Columbus, seeking another championship run.

“I always wanted to be at Ohio State,” he explained. “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 noted that this season might be his final one at Ohio State. He is a projected top pick for the 2027 NFL Draft. Nevertheless, his current focus remains on avenging last year’s losses.