Legend Bey has not played a single college football snap, yet Ohio State star wide receiver Jeremiah Smith is already making a massive prediction about the freshman.
Smith told teammates earlier this year that before Bey’s time in Columbus is over, he will either reach New York as a Heisman Trophy finalist or win the award outright.
“I said to Luke Montgomery, I said, ‘Before Legend Bey leaves Ohio State, he’ll be a Heisman finalist, or he’ll end up winning it,’” Smith said. “And the things he’s been doing in practice has been pretty special for sure.”
What Happened
Smith’s comments, first shared publicly in the spring and recently revisited, have added serious fuel to the early hype surrounding Bey. The prediction carries extra weight because it comes from one of the most accomplished players currently on the roster — a two-time standout who himself has been discussed in Heisman conversations.
Bey is a true freshman still adjusting to the college game and the running back position after playing primarily as a dual-threat quarterback in high school.
Why This Matters
Ohio State has produced plenty of high-end talent in recent years, but bold Heisman forecasts for a player who has yet to take a college snap are rare. Smith’s endorsement signals that Bey’s practice performances have already stood out among a talented group that includes established backs Bo Jackson and Isaiah West.
For Buckeye fans, the comments raise the possibility that the program’s next major individual award contender is already on campus and developing behind the scenes.
Key Details Fans Need to Know
Bey arrived at Ohio State as a highly regarded athlete out of North Forney High School in Texas. Ranked among the top athletes nationally in the 2026 class, he was a dual-threat quarterback who finished his senior season with 1,341 passing yards and 15 touchdowns while rushing for 1,626 yards and 23 scores.
His overall high school production was eye-catching: more than 4,000 career rushing yards, over 3,500 passing yards, and 94 total touchdowns. At 5-foot-10 with elite speed (verified track times in the 100-meter dash), Bey brings a unique skill set that Ohio State plans to utilize beyond traditional running back duties.
Head coach Ryan Day has previously compared aspects of Bey’s game to former Buckeyes like Curtis Samuel, noting the potential for versatile usage as a runner, receiver, and possible returner.
What Happens Next
Bey is not expected to carry a heavy load as a true freshman with Jackson and West already established in the backfield. That timeline actually works in his favor. He has time to refine the technical details of playing running back while continuing to flash the playmaking ability that impressed Smith and the coaching staff.
If Bey develops as projected, the Heisman conversation Smith outlined could become realistic later in his career once he earns a larger role.
The Bigger Picture
Smith’s prediction is bold, but it fits the pattern of Ohio State stars recognizing special talent early. Whether Bey ultimately reaches New York remains to be seen. What is clear is that one of the program’s best current players already believes the freshman has that kind of ceiling.
For now, Buckeye fans have a new name to watch closely as the 2026 season begins.
13. FAQ Section
What did Jeremiah Smith say about Legend Bey?
Smith predicted that before Bey leaves Ohio State, he will either be a Heisman Trophy finalist or win the award.
Has Legend Bey played in a college game yet?
No. He is a true freshman entering the 2026 season.
What position did Bey play in high school?
He was a dual-threat quarterback who also produced big rushing numbers.
What are Bey’s high school production numbers?
As a senior he passed for 1,341 yards and 15 touchdowns while rushing for 1,626 yards and 23 touchdowns. Career totals exceeded 4,000 rushing yards and 3,500 passing yards with 94 touchdowns.
Will Bey play right away at Ohio State?
He is expected to develop behind Bo Jackson and Isaiah West while earning rotational opportunities as a freshman.
Reader Question
Do you believe Legend Bey has the talent to eventually become a Heisman contender at Ohio State, or is the hype getting ahead of itself?
