Ferentz Compared Ohio State's Smith to Legends

Iowa head coach Kirk Ferentz praised Ohio State receiver Jeremiah Smith ahead of Saturday's matchup.

Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Football

Expressive editorial sports illustration of two football players in motion, rendered in Iowa gold and black and Ohio State scarlet and gray. — Iowa head coach Kirk Ferentz prepares his undefeated team to host No. 5 Ohio State, led by breakout receiver Jeremiah Smith, this Saturday at Kinnick Stadium. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Iowa head coach Kirk Ferentz compared Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith to Saquon Barkley and Randy Moss after Smith's breakout performance. Iowa will host Ohio State at Kinnick Stadium this Saturday.

Why it matters

The high praise highlights the challenge Iowa's defense faces as it prepares to host a top-five opponent. The Hawkeyes hope to maintain their undefeated start to the 2026 season against the highly ranked Buckeyes.

Jeremiah Smith recorded 217 receiving yards and four touchdowns on 12 receptions against Illinois. Iowa currently allows an average of 168.7 passing yards per game.

The players

Kirk Ferentz

He is the head coach of the Iowa Hawkeyes football team.

Jeremiah Smith

He is a standout wide receiver for the Ohio State Buckeyes.

The details

Kirk Ferentz assessed Jeremiah Smith's performance against coverage following the receiver's massive day in Ohio State's 42-19 victory over Illinois. Iowa heads into this game with a 4-0 record, coming off a 29-19 win against Michigan.

September 29, 2026, is the article publication date.
Iowa hosts Ohio State this Saturday.

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Season Trajectory

This marquee matchup at Kinnick Stadium will significantly impact the Big Ten standings and the national playoff picture. A win for No. 14 Iowa against No. 5 Ohio State would reshape the competitive balance of the division.

Iowa's defense faces its toughest test against an Ohio State offense that remains dangerous with a 3-1 record. Fans should watch if Iowa can maintain its passing yards allowance benchmark against a top-tier receiving threat.

The takeaway

The game represents a crucial test for an undefeated Iowa defense against a high-powered Ohio State offense. Coaches often use such comparisons to signal to their players the elite level of athleticism they are about to face on the field.