JEREMIAH SMITH: I’m motivated by relationships, not money when it comes to staying with Ohio State, I have always loved Ohio State from the depth of my soul due to

JEREMIAH SMITH: I’m motivated by relationships, not money when it comes to staying with Ohio State, I have always loved Ohio State from the depth of my soul due to

Jeremiah Smith: Motivated by Relationships, Not Money

When it comes to my unwavering commitment to Ohio State, my motivation has never been about money. My decision to stay with this program is rooted in relationships, values, and a deep love for a place that feels like home. Ohio State is more than a football powerhouse—it’s a community that has shaped me, supported me, and inspired me to pursue excellence both on and off the field.

From the moment I set foot on campus, I felt something special. It wasn’t just the state-of-the-art facilities, the rich history, or the banners that line the stadium; it was the people. The relationships I’ve built here have been the foundation of my decision to stay. Coach Ryan Day, the staff, my teammates, and the fans have all played a pivotal role in creating an environment that values family over flash, relationships over riches, and character over clout.

Coach Day has been a mentor to me, not just as a football player but as a young man. His emphasis on development—both personal and athletic—showed me that Ohio State isn’t just about winning games but about building leaders. He’s someone who cares about me as a person, not just a name on a roster. That level of care and authenticity is rare, and it’s something I don’t take for granted.

The brotherhood I’ve found among my teammates is equally significant. These are relationships forged through early-morning practices, grueling workouts, and the shared goal of achieving greatness. My teammates push me to be better every day, and the bonds we’ve built extend beyond the field. We’re not just teammates; we’re brothers. And in a world where so many decisions are driven by personal gain, this sense of unity is priceless.

Growing up, Ohio State was always a dream. I’ve loved this program from the depth of my soul. As a kid, I admired the Buckeyes’ passion, discipline, and ability to compete at the highest level. Watching players like Ezekiel Elliott, Michael Thomas, and Chase Young dominate in scarlet and gray ignited a fire in me to one day follow in their footsteps. Now that I’m here, I understand why this program has such a rich tradition of success. It’s the culture, the accountability, and the relentless pursuit of excellence that sets Ohio State apart.

Sure, in today’s world of college athletics, money is often at the forefront of discussions. But for me, it’s always been about something deeper. I didn’t choose Ohio State for NIL deals or financial opportunities; I chose Ohio State because it’s where my heart is. This is where I want to grow, compete, and contribute to something bigger than myself.

At Ohio State, I’m not just playing football—I’m living a dream, building lifelong relationships, and representing a program that stands for everything I believe in. This is where I belong, and no amount of money could ever replace the love I have for this team, this school, and this community. My commitment to Ohio State is unshakeable because it’s built on the foundation of relationships, and that’s something money can never buy.