Breakout Performance: Jaxon Smith-Njigba
Ohio State has a talented wide receiver room, led by Chris Olave and Garrett Wilson. With the two stars leading the way and getting a majority of the targets it can be difficult for the other talented receivers on the roster to showcase their ability. On Saturday, Jaxon Smith-Njigba made several big plays to keep the Buckeyes in the game, showing what he is capable of. Ohio State failed to capitalize on their opportunities and lost to Oregon 35 – 28, but Smith-Njigba’s performance was a bright spot for Ohio State.
Smith-Njigba showed glimpses of his potential as a true freshman in 2020. He displayed the ability to run good routes and make highlight reel catches despite the shortened season and with limited opportunities in 2020. His potential and ability to take advantage of his opportunities earned him the starting spot in the slot for the Buckeyes in 2021. Saturday, Smith-Njigba had an explosive game, showing what kind of impact he can have for Ohio State the rest of the season and beyond.
Oregon was unable to contain Smith-Njigba. He showed great pace in and out of his breaks and was able to create good separation from the slot. He made several big plays including two touchdown catches, including one on a late fourth down that kept hope alive for Ohio State. Even when he was covered, Smith-Njigba was able to make tough grabs in traffic and in jump-ball situations. He was dangerous working all levels of the field in the passing game and gave the Buckeyes another huge weapon on offense.
Jaxon Smith-Njigba had 7 catches for 145 yards and 2 touchdowns on Saturday, doing his best to keep the Buckeyes in the game. His emergence will lead to more targets for him and more space for Olave and Wilson to operate. Ohio State has an explosive offense that will only improve as their young weapons establish themselves and CJ Stroud becomes more comfortable at quarterback. Smith-Njigba announced on Saturday that he is ready to be the next great receiver at Ohio State.
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