Ohio State's Jeremiah Smith Dominates Heisman Race After Record Day Against Iowa
Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith has vaulted to the top of the Heisman Trophy contender list after another record-breaking performance against Iowa. The Buckeyes' star receiver is now the clear front-runner for college football's most prestigious individual award.
Smith powered Ohio State to a 31-14 victory over the Hawkeyes on Oct. 3, posting his second consecutive 200-yard receiving game. During the contest, Smith broke Ohio State records for career receiving touchdowns and receptions, cementing his place in Buckeyes history.
How did Jeremiah Smith perform against Iowa?
Smith's dominance against Iowa was the latest chapter in what has become a historic season. The wide receiver now holds the receiving triple crown and is the second Big Ten wide receiver ever to record back-to-back 200-yard games. His gap over the second-place Heisman contender is the widest between any two players on the list.
For Iowa fans, Smith's performance was a painful reminder of the challenge the Hawkeyes face in stopping elite playmakers. Ohio State's offense, led by Smith and quarterback Julian Sayin, proved too much for Iowa's defense to handle.
Where does Julian Sayin rank among Heisman candidates?
Buckeyes quarterback Julian Sayin checks in at No. 8 on the Heisman contender list. Against Iowa, Sayin threw for 324 yards and three touchdowns, continuing his strong season. Since Ohio State's loss to Texas, Sayin has thrived, leading the Big Ten in completion percentage while showing growth in his rushing ability.
Sayin finished as a Heisman finalist last season and remains in contention for a second consecutive trip to New York, though he faces a difficult schedule ahead.
Top 10 Heisman Trophy candidates after Week 5
Here is the complete ranking of the top Heisman contenders after five weeks of college football action:
10. Jaden Baugh, Florida RB
Florida's stunning 45-17 loss to Missouri derailed Baugh's candidacy. The star running back was held to just 12 carries for 13 yards in the blowout loss.
9. Gunner Stockton, Georgia QB
Georgia remains undefeated with Stockton improving each week. He threw for 295 yards and three touchdowns against Vanderbilt with only one interception on the season. His toughest test comes this week against Alabama.
8. Julian Sayin, Ohio State QB
Sayin has rebounded well since the Texas loss and continues to lead the Big Ten in completion percentage. A strong second half could secure his second straight Heisman finalist appearance.
7. Malachi Toney, Miami WR
Toney is one of three non-quarterbacks on the list. He is fourth in the FBS in receiving yards through five games despite a quiet outing in Miami's win over Clemson.
6. Kamario Taylor, Mississippi State QB
Taylor threw two interceptions in Mississippi State's loss to Alabama but still managed 256 yards and three touchdowns. He is one of the most exciting young quarterbacks in college football.
5. CJ Carr, Notre Dame QB
Carr completed 21 of 29 passes for four touchdowns and added a rushing score against North Carolina. The projected first-round NFL draft pick has Notre Dame at 5-0.
4. Trinidad Chambliss, Ole Miss QB
Chambliss delivered arguably the most impressive quarterback win of the season when he beat his former coach Lane Kiffin and LSU. He remains in strong position despite a loss to Florida.
3. Darian Mensah, Miami QB
Mensah holds an 84.2% completion rate and leads the ACC in passing touchdowns. His Nov. 7 matchup against Notre Dame could decide his Heisman fate.
2. Keelon Russell, Alabama QB
Russell played a flawless game against Mississippi State, completing 16 of 22 passes for 285 yards and three touchdowns while adding a rushing score. His showdown with Georgia this week will test his candidacy.
1. Jeremiah Smith, Ohio State WR
Smith's record-breaking performances have created an insurmountable gap between him and the rest of the field. If he maintains this pace, no one can catch him on the way to his first Heisman Trophy.
What does this mean for Iowa football?
While the Heisman race is dominated by Ohio State talent, Iowa fans can take note of the challenge ahead. The Hawkeyes' loss to Ohio State highlighted the gap between elite offensive talent and Iowa's defensive schemes. As the season progresses, Iowa will need to find answers to compete with the Big Ten's top offensive threats.
For now, Smith's Heisman campaign is the story of the college football season, and his performance against Iowa will be remembered as a defining moment in his historic run.