Jeremiah Smith set a new career receiving yardage record for Ohio State as the sixth-ranked Buckeyes dominated Kent State 59-3 on Saturday in Columbus. Smith, a junior, surpassed Michael Jenkins’ previous school record of 2,898 yards, reaching the milestone on a 23-yard reception from quarterback Julian Sayin early in the game.
Ohio State (2-1) opened the contest with a strong offensive showing, scoring on its first four possessions. The victory marked a swift rebound following last week’s narrow 24-23 loss to No. 1 Texas, where the Buckeyes relinquished a 20-point lead in the fourth quarter. Head coach Ryan Day said the team responded with the focus and intensity he expected, emphasizing clean execution on offense and aggressive defense.
Sayin, making key throws throughout the game, completed 18 of 22 passes for 242 yards and two touchdowns. Ohio State’s offense featured multiple big plays, including seven pass completions exceeding 20 yards. One of the longest was a 75-yard touchdown catch by Chris Henry off a pass from backup quarterback Luke Fahey late in the fourth quarter.
Running back Ja’Kobi Jackson led the ground attack with two rushing touchdowns, scoring on runs of 11 yards and 1 yard. Senior transfer from Florida, Jackson contributed significantly alongside Bo Jackson, Ohio State’s leading rusher in the game with 73 yards on 11 carries. Isaiah West also scored on the ground, adding to the Buckeyes’ commanding offensive performance.
Kent State (1-2) prevented a shutout when Sean Leonard kicked a 30-yard field goal in the closing minutes of the fourth quarter. The Golden Flashes’ scoring opportunity was set up by a 48-yard interception return by Tanner Mintz, who picked off a pass from quarterback Trevien St. Clair and advanced the ball deep into Ohio State territory.
Overall, the Buckeyes’ decisive victory showcased balanced scoring and efficient execution on both sides of the ball as they sought to regain momentum early in the season.