Ohio State Football: 5 freshmen who could make an immediate impact
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L’Christian “Blue” Smith enters Columbus listed as an athlete, but he is most likely going to play wide receiver. Smith is an absolute freak of nature.
Listed at 6’6″ 205 pounds Smith runs a 4.4 40-yard dash and has a vertical of 41″. Smith will need to work on his ball skills, especially on jump balls, but still will get opportunities to make plays because of his raw ability. A good comparison for Smith is a slightly taller and stronger version of Binjimen Victor, but with worse ball skills.
Smith’s chances of playing next season are slim, but he could still be given some opportunities. Due to the fact that the only receivers in Ohio State’s receiving core right now that are serious threats to leave are Johnnie Dixon and Parris Campbell.
Kamryn Babb, CJ Saunders, and Jaylen Harris are all likely to be listed ahead of Smith. Despite this, Smith’s elite athletic ability could be used by the Buckeyes, especially in the redzone.
Next: Things to look forward to next season
If Smith doesn’t redshirt, expect the Buckeyes to use three wide receiver sets in the redzone, with Smith, Victor, and Mack. Smith and Victor will be lined up opposite of each other, which will give Dwayne Haskins two freaks of nature that he can just throw the ball up to, and then also have Mack who can run any route and make any catch on the field.