Lanning Warns Oregon About Smith and Ohio State’s Defense

Oregon coach Dan Lanning says his team will have a difficult task defending Ohio State receiver Jeremiah Smith when the Ducks visit Columbus on November 7. Lanning joked that Oregon might need an extra player, then praised Smith as a dynamic, pro-ready player who must be tracked throughout the game.

Smith has 62 receptions for 1,067 yards and 13 touchdowns through eight games. Since joining Ohio State in 2024, he has totaled 225 catches, 3,625 yards and 40 touchdowns, and is viewed as a leading prospect for the 2027 NFL Draft.

Lanning also pointed to the Buckeyes’ defense as a challenge for an Oregon offense still seeking consistency under new play-caller Jay Johnson. He said Ohio State uses varied formations and moves players around, making it difficult to predict where defenders will line up. The Buckeyes rank No. 11 nationally in total defense.

Oregon’s running game could face a test: Ohio State ranks No. 15 in rushing defense, while Ducks backs Dierre Hill Jr. and Jordon Davison were banged up in the win over Northwestern. Oregon may also study how USC attacked Ohio State through the air, though cornerback Jay Timmons’ absence could have affected that performance.

Ohio State is 6-2 overall and 4-1 in Big Ten play after losing 30-18 to USC. Oregon is 5-3 and 3-2 after beating Northwestern 34-26. Both teams have three regular-season games remaining after Saturday, and Oregon likely needs to win out to stay in the College Football Playoff picture.