Humble tight end leads Panthers into improved offense

Jorge Corrales/Staff Writer

The 2014 Panther offense is much improved from the 2013 football team, which averaged only 9.5 points per game. The anchor of the new and improved offense has been sophomore tight end Jonnu Smith.

Smith is listed as a tight end, but sees more action lining up wide as a receiver. Standing at six-foot-three, he has been the biggest and most reliable target for freshman quarterback Alex McGough.

Smith began playing football at the age of five as a member of the Northwest Raiders. He played his high school ball at West Port High School and attracted interest from schools such as Ole Miss, University of South Florida and University of Central Florida. He ultimately decided to head south and become a Panther.

“Hanging out with the guys on my recruiting trip really helped me decide to come here,” said Smith. “We clicked. We had chemistry. I could really see those guys being my brothers for the next four years. I love my teammates; that’s what I like most about being at FIU.”

Smith started all twelve games as a true freshman and earned a spot on the Conference USA all-freshman team. He led all Panthers in 2013 with 39 receptions for 388 yards. He was also the only Panther to catch a pass in all 12 games. Smith’s emergence at the tight end position and his positive outlook were two small bright spots in what was a dismal 2013 season.

Smith had a rough camp entering the 2014 season and coaches noticed something off about him.

“In training camp, he was really pressing,” said Coach Ron Turner. “I could see it. He was trying to be perfect. He wouldn’t even smile; he’s usually smiling all the time.”

Smith must have gotten things sorted out before week one. Going into the 2014 bye week, Smith leads the team in receptions (42), receiving yards (485) and receiving touchdowns (4). He was named to the John Mackey Award midseason watch list. The Mackey award is given annually to the most outstanding collegiate tight end.

“I know my role,” said Smith. “I’m not gonna try and put the team on my back. I’ve just been putting my team in the best situation to win. We’re all contributing, the whole offense. My success starts from the offensive line and the quarterback. All of my success comes from my teammates.”

Smith has caught a pass in 20 straight games, dating back to last year. His best game of 2013 came in week two against Wagner. He caught nine passes for 127 yards, including a 2-yard screen that he turned into a 41-yard touchdown reception. It was Smith’s first career 100-yard receiving game.

Despite the impressive performance, the week two victory was not the most memorable game of the season for Smith.

“My favorite game of the year so far would probably be FAU,” said Smith. “Getting that trophy back— that was a huge win for us. Not only because we got the trophy back, but it was a big conference win.