Full Breakdown
Ohio State's Rising Stars: Jeremiah Smith and Carnell Tate
10/12/2025, 3:47:24 AM
Increased Attention on Jeremiah Smith
Jeremiah Smith, a sophomore wide receiver for Ohio State, has experienced heightened scrutiny from opposing defenses this season. After a standout freshman year where he led the team with 1,315 receiving yards and 15 touchdowns, Smith has continued to perform, amassing 463 yards and six touchdowns through five games in 2025. However, he describes the increased defensive focus as “frustrating,” noting that opponents are determined to neutralize his impact. “Everybody that we’ve played against just wants to take me out of the game,” Smith stated.
Despite the challenges, Smith acknowledges the emergence of his teammate, junior receiver Carnell Tate, as a significant asset. Tate's performance has drawn attention away from Smith, allowing both players to thrive. In a recent game against Minnesota, Tate caught nine passes for a career-high 183 yards, including a 44-yard touchdown, while Smith contributed 67 yards and two touchdowns. Smith remarked, “I saw them all running at me, I just started laughing in their face,” highlighting the strategic advantage of having multiple threats on the field.
Carnell Tate's Growing NFL Prospects
Carnell Tate, a key player for the Buckeyes, has also garnered significant attention from NFL scouts as the 2026 NFL Draft approaches. With 435 receiving yards and four touchdowns this season, Tate's performance has positioned him as a likely first-round pick. His ability to execute deep routes and make critical catches has drawn comparisons to notable NFL receivers, including DeVonta Smith and Calvin Ridley.
Tate's rapid rise in stock is underscored by his consistent production, including six receptions of over 40 yards this season, the best in the FBS. Analysts have noted that Tate’s versatility and skill set make him a valuable asset for any NFL team. His teammate, Jeremiah Smith, emphasized Tate's impact, stating, “You can’t just worry about me now, you’ve got to worry about Carnell Tate.”
Official Statements & Responses
Ohio State head coach Ryan Day has praised the depth of talent on the team, emphasizing the importance of resilience and adaptability as they face increasingly tough competition. He noted that the dual-threat nature of the offense complicates defensive strategies, allowing players like Smith and Tate to excel.
Criticism & Opposition
While Smith and Tate have thrived, not all players on the team share the same level of recognition. Senior defensive end Beau Atkinson and junior linebacker Arvell Reese expressed that they do not face the same scrutiny, with Atkinson stating, “I don’t get recognized,” and Reese humorously noting, “I don't have to go through that, for real. I can still go to the grocery store.” This contrast highlights the varying experiences within the team.
What's Next
As the season progresses, both Smith and Tate are expected to continue their strong performances, with NFL scouts closely monitoring their development. Ohio State's ability to leverage its offensive depth will be crucial as they aim for championship contention, making every game an opportunity for these rising stars to solidify their legacies.
