First time watching, is Schmidt everyone’s favorite character and carrying the show or is it just me?

Just started watching this week and I am already on Season 2 Episode 10, I love this show! And holy shit, the writing of Schmidts character AND the portrayal by the actor is so original! The way he cares for his friends, cares for Cece , how he is educated and driven and is unequivocally himself! Ive really started watchin the show only for Schmidts and Ceces parts now… is the fandom equally fond of them or is it just me?

Edit: Ummmm you guys??? I just watched S2E15 and I am SHOCKED, that was HOT