**“Skull Session Buzz: Jeremiah Smith Ready to Silence Ohio State Doubters, Carson Hinzman Trains with LeCharles Bentley, and MLB All-Star Break Highlights”**
There’s never a dull day in the world of Ohio State athletics, and this Skull Session delivers more evidence of that reality. As July rolls into its second half and the football season inches closer, anticipation continues to mount in Columbus. Buckeye fans are already buzzing about the potential of freshman phenom Jeremiah Smith, who is determined to prove doubters wrong and showcase why he’s one of the most anticipated recruits in recent memory. On the other side of the ball—literally and figuratively—Carson Hinzman is putting in serious work to solidify his spot on the offensive line, receiving valuable guidance from a Buckeye great in LeCharles Bentley. And as Ohio State’s stars shine in their offseason preparations, the Major League Baseball All-Star break gives fans across the country a quick breather while also putting the spotlight on baseball’s brightest talents. It’s a fascinating time for sports fans, especially those wearing scarlet and gray.
Jeremiah Smith has been on Buckeye fans’ radar for a long time, but now that he’s officially on campus, he’s ready to flip the switch and deliver on the massive expectations that surround him. Hailing from Chaminade-Madonna Prep in Florida, Smith was regarded by many as the No. 1 wide receiver in the 2024 recruiting class and possibly one of the best high school wideouts in years. But with all the fanfare comes skepticism from those outside Columbus, including rivals who are quick to question whether a true freshman can step into the spotlight and dominate right away. Smith isn’t phased. He’s embraced the challenge and, by all accounts, is turning heads in summer workouts. His work ethic, physical gifts, and maturity are earning praise from veterans and coaches alike. There’s a quiet intensity about him, the kind that often defines great athletes who understand the weight of expectations but view them as fuel rather than pressure. He’s not interested in just making the two-deep chart—he’s eyeing the starting lineup, and nothing less will satisfy him.
For Ohio State, that’s exactly the mentality needed from a receiver who might be asked to play a significant role in the passing game early on. While the Buckeyes have a deep and talented receiving corps, there’s something about Smith that screams “next level.” He’s got the size, the hands, the route running, and the competitive fire to become a difference-maker. That’s not to say he won’t face challenges—adjusting to college defenses, handling the physical toll of a long season, and learning the complexities of Ryan Day’s offense are no small feats—but Smith is approaching the opportunity with total focus. He knows critics are watching, waiting for a misstep, and that knowledge only adds to his motivation. It’s the kind of drive that has transformed great Ohio State players of the past into legends, and if Smith continues on this trajectory, he could be the next in that elite line.
Meanwhile, in the trenches, Carson Hinzman is doing everything in his power to ensure Ohio State’s offensive line remains among the best in the country. The former four-star recruit is entering a critical stage of his development, and he’s getting help from one of the greatest centers in Buckeye history: LeCharles Bentley. For those who might not remember, Bentley was a dominant force at Ohio State in the early 2000s and went on to a successful NFL career. His technical knowledge, leadership qualities, and passion for line play make him an invaluable resource for young linemen, and Hinzman is smart to take full advantage. The two have been spotted working together this offseason, focusing on fundamentals, footwork, and mental toughness. It’s the kind of mentorship that can change a player’s career trajectory.
Hinzman has shown promise, but like all young offensive linemen, consistency is the key. There are flashes of brilliance in his game—quick hands, solid leverage, and intelligent adjustments—but Bentley’s presence is helping him round out the edges. It’s not just about physicality; it’s about mindset. Bentley brings an old-school toughness and attention to detail that has become somewhat rare in modern college football. That influence is rubbing off on Hinzman, who is entering this season with a sharper approach. He understands what’s at stake. The offensive line is the engine that drives the Buckeye offense, and with a new quarterback under center, their performance will be under a microscope. Hinzman knows he must be a steadying presence, anchoring the line and allowing the offense to operate smoothly. With Bentley in his corner, that goal seems increasingly achievable.
The emphasis Ohio State is placing on individual development this offseason is notable. While spring and fall camps are critical for installing plays and building chemistry, it’s the summer grind—the quiet, often overlooked hours in the weight room and practice field—that forges champions. Players like Smith and Hinzman aren’t just trying to compete—they’re trying to lead. And in a program like Ohio State’s, that kind of internal drive is contagious. Veteran leaders have taken notice, and the culture in the locker room is reportedly thriving. That’s good news for Buckeye fans hoping for a bounce-back season and a serious run at the Big Ten title and College Football Playoff berth.
While Ohio State football prepares for the grind ahead, the sports world shifts its attention momentarily to the MLB All-Star break. It’s a chance for players to catch their breath, fans to celebrate the first half of the season, and everyone to enjoy a little bit of spectacle in the middle of the long baseball calendar. For Buckeye fans who also follow MLB, it’s been a particularly entertaining year, with plenty of drama, breakout performances, and surprise teams making noise. The Home Run Derby delivered its usual fireworks, with some young stars showing they’re ready to take over the league, and the All-Star Game itself had its moments of brilliance. The National League finally got a long-awaited win after years of American League dominance, and several players took the opportunity to shine under the bright lights.
The break also gives teams a moment to reassess. Who are the true contenders? Who needs to make a move at the trade deadline? Injuries, slumps, and surprising performances have shaken up the playoff picture, and fans can expect a wild second half as teams jockey for position. The All-Star break may be brief, but it often marks a turning point in the MLB season, when pretenders are separated from contenders. As players return to their respective clubs, the intensity ramps up, and every game starts to feel a bit more meaningful.
For Ohio sports fans, there’s added interest this year with several former Buckeyes or Ohio-based athletes making noise on the big stage. Whether it’s watching former Ohio State standouts or rooting for the hometown Cleveland Guardians or Cincinnati Reds, there’s no shortage of reasons to be locked in for the second half. Both teams have shown flashes of playoff potential, and with the right moves in July, could become postseason threats. The Guardians, in particular, have been one of the more consistent teams in the American League and boast a young core that seems to improve with every passing month. The Reds, fueled by youth and enthusiasm, have been streaky but dangerous, and fans are hoping they can find a groove as the dog days of summer approach.
Baseball might not have the constant adrenaline rush of college football, but its rhythm provides a nice counterbalance during these hot summer days. It’s also a reminder of the broader sports ecosystem that Ohio State athletes are stepping into. Many Buckeye fans are multi-sport loyalists, and that crossover love for baseball, basketball, and football fuels year-round excitement. Even during the “offseason,” there’s always something to follow, always a new storyline to invest in, and always a reason to wear the scarlet and gray with pride.
As July continues to unfold, attention will shift back toward fall camp and the all-important preseason battles that will determine starting roles. Jeremiah Smith’s fight for a top spot at receiver will be one of the most-watched developments in camp. Can he really crack the rotation in year one? Will his drive and talent be enough to overcome the natural learning curve that comes with jumping from high school to Power Five football? Similarly, Carson Hinzman’s progression on the offensive line will be crucial. With Bentley’s mentorship and another offseason under his belt, Hinzman is in a prime position to become a difference-maker in the trenches. Those battles—on the field, in the film room, and within the team culture—will shape the Buckeyes’ 2025 campaign.
In the meantime, Skull Session continues to serve as the heartbeat of the Buckeye faithful—a place where passion meets analysis, where optimism meets accountability, and where the future of Ohio State athletics is chronicled day by day. Whether it’s a freshman trying to make a name for himself, a veteran fine-tuning his game with the help of a legend, or a quick baseball interlude to break up the football focus, there’s always something worth discussing. And as always, the best is yet to come in Columbus.
