When an established college football voice likens a rising player to Julio Jones and Terrell Owens, national attention follows fast. That is exactly what happened after ESPN analyst Kirk Herbstreit called Jeremiah Smith’s abilities a “rare skill set,” prompting fans, scouts and draft-watchers to dig into who Smith is and whether the comparison holds up.
What Is Happening
College football analyst Kirk Herbstreit publicly compared Jeremiah Smith to NFL legends Julio Jones and Terrell Owens, describing Smith as possessing a “rare skill set.” The remark, reported by On3, sparked renewed interest in Smith’s film, measurables and projection as a high-level pass-catcher. The comparison places Smith in the conversation alongside two of the most physically imposing and productive receivers of the NFL era — a high bar that invites closer scrutiny.
Why This Topic Is Trending
Short, authoritative endorsements from national commentators often create viral moments in college sports. Herbstreit’s comparison did three things at once: it elevated Jeremiah Smith’s profile beyond regional coverage, it signaled to NFL scouts and media that Smith’s tape merits attention, and it gave fans a shorthand to understand the type of player Smith might become. People are searching to find out who Smith is, whether the comparison is justified, and what the praise could mean for his immediate future — from upcoming games to potential draft positioning.
Key Details to Know
Here’s what readers need to understand about the situation and why the comparison matters, without overstating what is or isn’t known.
Important Detail
Comparisons to Julio Jones and Terrell Owens focus less on identical styles and more on shared attributes: size, contested-catch ability, physicality at the catch point, and the potential to dominate one-on-one matchups. Herbstreit’s use of the phrase “rare skill set” implies that Smith shows more than transient flashes — it suggests consistent traits scouts value on tape. Note: the exact wording and context of Herbstreit’s remarks come from reports cited by On3; for full context, view the original clip or reporting.
Beyond the headline comparison, several broader realities shape how to interpret this praise:
- Analyst comparisons are a launching point, not a forecast. They highlight traits worth studying but do not guarantee a player will reach NFL stardom.
- Film context matters. A player’s dominance can be influenced by level of competition, offensive scheme, quarterback play and usage. Scouts combine tape with measurable data and consistency over time.
- Media attention can accelerate opportunities (like weekend national TV slots or more draft buzz) but also raises expectations that the player must meet on the field.
What This Means for Readers
If you’re a fan, a fantasy player, a scout, or a general observer, Herbstreit’s comment is a signal to do a few practical things differently. First, watch Smith’s recent game tape and highlight reels to form your own view rather than relying solely on the comparison. Look specifically for contested catches, body control, separation ability, and the frequency of game-changing plays. Second, check reputable scouting outlets, draft boards and combine/pro day reports for athletic measurements and performance trends. Finally, temper excitement with context: exceptional comparisons can be accurate or premature, so pair enthusiasm with scrutiny.
What to Watch Next
Several developments will clarify whether Herbstreit’s praise is a short-term headline or the start of a longer trajectory:
- Upcoming game performances: Consistent production against strong defensive opponents will validate the “rare skill set” tag more than a single breakout game.
- Scouting evaluations and draft coverage: Look for consensus reports from established scouting services, NFL personnel evaluations, and draft analysts to see how Smith’s profile evolves.
- Combine and pro day results: Measurables like 40-yard dash, vertical jump, and shuttle times, paired with positional drills, help contextualize on-field film.
- Injury updates and availability: Health and durability can change a player’s projection more than any single shoutout.
- Media and analyst follow-up: Additional endorsements or critiques from other national voices can either reinforce or temper Herbstreit’s assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question 1
Who made the comparison between Jeremiah Smith and Julio Jones/Terrell Owens?
ESPN analyst Kirk Herbstreit made the comparison, with the remarks reported by On3. The phrase “rare skill set” was used to describe Smith’s abilities.
Question 2
Does this mean Jeremiah Smith will be as successful as Jones or Owens in the NFL?
No. Comparisons highlight similar traits and potential but are not guarantees of future success. Jones and Owens reached elite career milestones over many seasons under specific circumstances; a comparison indicates promise but not a certain outcome.
Question 3
What should I look for when evaluating Jeremiah Smith’s tape?
Focus on contested-catch situations, catch radius, separation ability, route precision, body control in traffic, yards after catch, and consistency across multiple games and levels of competition.
Question 4
Will this media attention affect Smith’s draft stock?
Increased visibility can accelerate interest from scouts and media, but draft stock ultimately depends on a combination of tape, measurables, interviews, medical checks and how a player performs in pre-draft evaluations.
Question 5
Where can I find reliable updates on Jeremiah Smith?
Track reputable outlets covering college football and the NFL draft, official team releases, major sports networks, and scouting services. On3, ESPN, and other established platforms are typical starting points for coverage and analysis.
Conclusion
Kirk Herbstreit’s comparison of Jeremiah Smith to Julio Jones and Terrell Owens has put a bright spotlight on a player many will now watch more closely. That praise signals that Smith displays traits scouts and analysts find elite — contested-ball ability, physical presence and the potential to change games. But comparisons are shorthand, not destiny. The next steps for anyone following Smith are to review his tape, monitor scouting reports and watch upcoming performances and pre-draft evaluations. Those sources will provide the concrete evidence needed to determine whether the “rare skill set” Herbstreit noted translates into sustained, NFL-level production.