Ohio State freshman phenom snubbed in former NFL MVP's award announcement

Sometimes, disrespect comes in unexpected forms. The Ohio State Buckeyes have a unanimously historic freshman wide receiver, but that doesn't mean the world always agrees. Knowing how Jeremiah Smith operates, he'll use this latest slight as motivation. The Freshman All-American should've been a shoo-in on most ballots for the top overall freshman across the nation, […]

Ian Valentino National College Football Writer
Add as preferred source on Google
Ohio State Buckeyes wide receiver Jeremiah Smith (4) dances into the end zone untouched by Purdue Boilermakers defensive back Nyland Green (2) during the first half at Ohio Stadium.
Barbara Perenic-Imagn Images

Sometimes, disrespect comes in unexpected forms. The Ohio State Buckeyes have a unanimously historic freshman wide receiver, but that doesn't mean the world always agrees. Knowing how Jeremiah Smith operates, he'll use this latest slight as motivation.

The Freshman All-American should've been a shoo-in on most ballots for the top overall freshman across the nation, but Shaun Alexander didn't agree.


With 63 receptions for 1,037 yards and 12 touchdowns, Smith was one of the best offensive weapons in the country, regardless of class. The school's previous records for a freshman, which included 51 receptions for 648 yards and eight touchdowns, had remained unbeaten for 40 years since Cris Carter achieved them in 1984.

Smith became the first Ohio State freshman and only the 10th Buckeye in history to surpass 1,000 receiving yards in a single season. He is already among a select group of 17 Buckeyes who have recorded 10 receiving touchdowns in one season.


Alexander, born on August 30, 1977, in Florence, Kentucky, is a former professional American football running back known for his standout career in the NFL, primarily with the Seattle Seahawks. 

He played college football at the University of Alabama, where he became a prominent figure, earning All-American honors and setting several school records.

Alexander was selected by the Seahawks in the first round of the 2000 NFL Draft. Over his 10-year career, he established himself as one of the premier running backs in the league. 


His breakout season came in 2005 when he rushed for a remarkable 1,880 yards and scored 27 touchdowns, leading the NFL in both categories. This stellar performance earned him the NFL MVP award that year, making him the first Seahawk to receive the honor.

Known for his powerful running style, agility, and ability to find the end zone, Alexander played a crucial role in the Seahawks' success during his tenure. 


He helped lead the team to its first Super Bowl appearance in the 2005 season, where they faced the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Injuries plagued the latter part of his career, and he played his final season with the Washington Redskins in 2008. Over his career, Alexander amassed over 9,400 rushing yards and 100 rushing touchdowns, solidifying his legacy as one of the all-time greats in Seahawks history. 

After retiring, he has been involved in various philanthropic efforts and remains a respected figure in the football community.