In a thrilling college football showdown, Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James took a moment to celebrate Ohio State University wide receiver Jeremiah Smith’s milestone 20th birthday following a spectacular performance against arch-rival Michigan. Smith, a standout sophomore and one of the nation’s premier talents, delivered a clutch 35-yard touchdown that energized the Buckeyes and their fans.
The game, held on Saturday, saw Ohio State trailing 6-3 early in the second quarter. Facing a critical 4th-and-5 from Michigan’s 35-yard line, quarterback Julian Sayin connected with Smith, who broke away for a touchdown that gave Ohio State a 9-6 lead. This marked Smith’s 12th touchdown of the season and set the tone for the Buckeyes, who entered the contest undefeated and ranked No. 1 nationally.
LeBron James, known for his passion for Ohio State football, shared his excitement on social media, highlighting not only Smith’s touchdown but also praising teammate Brandon Inniss’s score that extended the lead to 17-9 by halftime. The Lakers star’s engagement brings added spotlight to Smith, a former five-star recruit and the No. 1 overall prospect in the 2024 high school class. Throughout his two collegiate seasons, Smith has more than lived up to expectations, boasting impressive stats including 76 receptions for 1,315 yards and 15 touchdowns during the Buckeyes’ national championship campaign last year.
This season, Smith has continued his dominance with 69 receptions for 902 yards and 10 touchdowns prior to the Michigan game, complemented by additional rushing contributions. His impact on the field extends beyond just statistics, as Ohio State aims to secure the No. 1 seed in the College Football Playoff and finally overcome Michigan, a rival they haven’t beaten since 2019. Adding a personal connection to the night, LeBron also gave a shoutout to left guard Luke Montgomery, who played alongside LeBron’s son Bronny James on the AAU basketball circuit. It was a memorable night for Jeremiah Smith—a milestone birthday marked with athletic excellence and recognition from one of sports’ greatest figures. As Ohio State continues its quest for playoff glory, Smith’s star is shining brighter than ever, and with LeBron James cheering him on, the Buckeyes have a spirited ally beyond the football field.
