Florida looking to make impression on Ohio State 5-star WR commit Jeremiah Smith

Florida’s charge to try and flip Hollywood (Fla.) Chaminade-Madonna Five-Star Plus+ wide receiver Jeremiah Smith from Ohio State will continue as the Gators host the elite prospect this weekend.

Smith, the No. 1 prospect in the 2024 cycle — per the On3 Industry Ranking — is set to be in The Swamp as the Gators take on Arkansas. It’s the second time that UF has gotten the Buckeye pledge on campus this season, as he also made a game visit on Sept. 23.

On the latest edition of The Inside Scoop, Florida recruiting insider Corey Bender joined On3’s Josh Newberg to talk the Gators’ chances for the coveted wideout. Ohio State doesn’t appear to be close to losing Smith’s commitment, but UF can try and make a move this weekend.

“I still think Florida has some room to make up, obviously. I think any school you could say has a ton of room to make up. I think it’s going to be very difficult to change his mind, ultimately,” Bender said.

Florida among the in-state schools vying for Smith’s pledge

Florida, Florida State and Miami have all led the charge to try and flip Smith from Ohio State. Each in-state powerhouse has gotten him on campus plenty. He’s visiting Florida this weekend, then is expected to be in Tallahassee when FSU hosts Miami the following weekend.

“He’s playing in his game on Friday then he and his family are going up to Gainesville for that noon kickoff. I think overall, I think Florida State might be ahead of Florida right now — as far as the schools pushing to flip him from Ohio State,” Bender said. “But ultimately, when it’s all said and done, I think it’ll be a shocker if he wants to change his mind at some point.”

The Gators still have reasons to hope for a flip, however. While it’s not been the most successful year in Gainesville, quarterback Graham Mertz has helped showcase an improved passing attack. Smith is also aware of Willis (Texas) five-star QB pledge DJ Lagway — one of three five-stars committed to UF in the 2024 cycle. Florida has a chance to make an impression on and off the field this weekend.

“I think overall, if you’re Jeremiah Smith, you’re seeing that they’re obviously getting young guys involved, they’re passing the ball. I know overall Graham Mertz, he’s spreading the ball out more than a lot of SEC quarterbacks. I think it’s very important, but I think it’s more than that,” Bender said.

…DJ Lagway is a huge factor, that relationship, knowing the future of the program, so I know that’s something (Smith’s) excited about. But also with the staff, too. The opportunity to play in the SEC and guide Florida’s offense if he was to go there, those are big appeals as well.”

Jeremiah Smith Scouting Summary

“One of the more talented and well-rounded receiver prospects in recent cycles. The highest-rated wide receiver prospect from Florida in well over a decade. A big, skilled receiver with fluidity and savvy for the position. Measured in at 6-foot-3 and around 200 pounds with a 32.5-inch arm prior to his senior season. Had a breakout junior season, catching 58 passes for 1,073 yards and 20 touchdowns while leading Chaminade-Madonna to a state title. A very polished route-runner at this stage with rare ability to change directions at his size. Smooth mover with technical refinement that allows for separation. Regularly stacks cornerbacks off the line. Pairs his route-running ability with advanced ball skills. Has strong hands and comes down with catches in traffic.

…A high-level ball tracker with the ability to locate the football over his shoulder. Capable of making fantastic one-handed grabs. Also flashes ability after the catch. Has the size to run through contact and a long stride to pull away in the open field. Also a strong track athlete winning state titles in the 110 meter and 400 meter hurdles as a junior. An extremely well-rounded prospect with a high floor and ceiling. Looks like a prototypical X wide receiver prospect with considerable traits and skills that point to an upside as a high draft pick.”