Jeremiah Smith Shatters Ohio State Records in Buckeyes' 31-14 Rout of Iowa
IOWA CITY, Iowa — The Hawkeyes had no answer for Jeremiah Smith, and Ohio State's star wide receiver left Kinnick Stadium with a place in Buckeyes history.
No. 5 Ohio State rolled to a 31-14 win over No. 14 Iowa on Saturday, thanks to a record-breaking performance from Smith. He finished with 206 receiving yards and two touchdowns, and now holds Ohio State's all-time records for receiving yards, touchdowns, and receptions.
Smith entered the game as the Buckeyes' career leader in receiving yards. His second touchdown of the day broke a tie with Chris Olave for the most receiving touchdowns in program history, and his 10th catch of the game set a new record for receptions.
How Smith rewrote the Ohio State record book
The record-breaking touchdown, the 36th of Smith's career, came in spectacular fashion. Iowa's defense left him wide open in the back of the end zone, and he celebrated with a Heisman pose that will be replayed for years.
Smith's day was filled with highlight-reel moments. He turned a difficult grab into a 54-yard gain, made a catch between two defenders while drawing a holding penalty, and capped a quick drive with a diving 12-yard touchdown just before halftime.
By the break, Smith had 111 yards and the Buckeyes led by 11. Julian Sayin, Ohio State's quarterback, completed all but four of his passes in the first half.
Iowa's early mistakes sealed the Hawkeyes' fate
Iowa's day started poorly and never improved. Quarterback Hank Brown fumbled on Iowa's second offensive snap, and Ohio State turned the turnover into an easy touchdown less than two minutes into the game.
The Hawkeyes managed to keep the game competitive in the third quarter, but Brown's accuracy issues proved costly. Smith's record-setting touchdown put the game out of reach, and the Buckeyes intercepted Brown on Iowa's next drive.
Ohio State led 24-6 after three quarters, and Ja'Kobi Jackson added a 7-yard touchdown run early in the fourth to seal the win.
What the loss means for Iowa
Iowa suffered its first loss of the season, falling to 4-1. Brown finished 12-of-27 for 132 yards and an interception. The Hawkeyes managed just 39 rushing yards all day, a far cry from their usual ground-and-pound identity.
Backup quarterback Jeremy Hecklinski replaced Brown early in the fourth quarter and led Iowa's only touchdown drive of the day, but it came too late to matter.
Ohio State's outlook and Heisman buzz
Sayin went 20-of-27 for 324 yards and three touchdowns, strengthening his Heisman Trophy case. The Buckeyes improved to 4-1 and remain near the top of the Big Ten standings.
Ohio State faces Maryland next week before a brutal stretch against No. 6 Indiana, No. 18 USC, and No. 15 Oregon. If Sayin and Smith keep performing at this level, the Buckeyes will be a tough out for anyone.
FAQ: Jeremiah Smith's record day against Iowa
What records did Jeremiah Smith break against Iowa?
Smith broke Ohio State's all-time records for receiving touchdowns (36) and receptions, adding to his existing record for receiving yards.
How many yards did Jeremiah Smith have against Iowa?
Smith finished with 206 receiving yards and two touchdowns on 10 catches.
Who is Ohio State's quarterback this season?
Julian Sayin is the Buckeyes' starting quarterback. He threw for 324 yards and three touchdowns against Iowa.
What is Iowa's record after the loss?
Iowa dropped to 4-1 on the season with the 31-14 loss to Ohio State.