Big-game production challenges desmond howard questions about jeremiah smith’s heisman candidacy
Howard challenges Smith’s impact
Howard raised doubts about the Heisman field on Friday during an appearance on First Take. He argued that no player had yet produced a defining moment in a major game, then asked whether Smith had done so over the past two seasons.
Howard said Smith’s impressive statistics and catches were not enough without standout performances against top competition. The former Michigan star pointed to his own 1991 punt-return touchdown against Ohio State as a moment that helped his Heisman campaign.
Ohio State’s season turns
Smith remains at the top of the Heisman rankings while Ohio State is struggling. The team’s decline began after Sayin was injured against Indiana, and coach Ryan Day selected freshman Luke Fahey over recruit Tavien St. Clair as the backup.
Smith’s record in major games
The article disputes Howard’s view by citing Smith’s performances in high-profile contests. In the national championship game, Smith caught five passes for 88 yards and a touchdown, including the game-clinching catch.
This season, Smith had eight catches for 164 yards and a score against No. 4 Texas, then led Ohio State against No. 5 Indiana with four catches for 68 yards and a touchdown. In last year’s playoff loss to Miami, he recorded 157 yards and a touchdown.
The article also notes that Smith went nearly two quarters without a target against Oregon as the game slipped away from Ohio State. It argues that the receiver cannot control play-calling or make the quarterback’s throws.
Rivalry shapes the response
Howard has often picked against Ohio State, and the article acknowledges his connection to Michigan. It contrasts his approach with Kirk Herbstreit, who has sought to project neutrality and has criticized Ohio State’s fanbase.
Still, the article argues that Smith’s production in major games undercuts the criticism. It describes him as one of college football’s greatest receivers and says his performances are not among the causes of the Buckeyes’ troubles.
Key points
- Howard questioned whether Smith has delivered a defining performance in a major game.
- Smith remains atop the Heisman rankings despite Ohio State’s recent losses.
- Smith recorded strong performances against Texas, Indiana and in the national championship game.
- The article argues that Howard’s criticism overlooks Smith’s production and his limited control over Ohio State’s offense.