As we begin to turn our attention from the 2024 college football season to 2025, the excitement is palpable. While the Ohio State Buckeyes are losing some key players to the NFL Draft, their future remains incredibly bright, especially with two of the top returning players in the nation — Jeremiah Smith and Caleb Downs. According to Ari Wasserman in his recent article, two Ohio State players are the best players returning to college football.
Jeremiah Smith: A Once-in-a-generation talent
Wasserman’s number one player is Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, and it’s no surprise why. Wasserman describes Smith as an “alien” — a term not often used lightly in football, but it’s completely justified in this case.
Smith is a rare combination of size, speed, route-running ability, and hands, which made him stand out from the second he stepped onto the field. He was dominant from the get-go, quickly becoming the best wide receiver in college football as a true freshman, an achievement that is almost unheard of at a program like Ohio State.
Wasserman emphasizes Smith’s readiness for the next level, stating, “You could say with a straight face that Smith would be an NFL starter right now, and he still has two years of college eligibility left.” That’s an incredible statement that reflects just how much of a game-changer Smith has been. He wasn’t justOhio State’s best receiver; he was the best receiver in the country, period.
Smith’s impact on Ohio State’s offense cannot be overstated. Even in a year when the Buckeyes are losing star quarterback Will Howard and other offensive weapons to the NFL, Smith will be the anchor of their attack. His ability to stretch the field, make difficult catches, and create separation with ease will make life much easier for Julian Sayin or whoever might step into the quarterback role next season.
Caleb Downs: The Backbone of the Defense
While Smith dominated on the offensive side of the ball, Caleb Downs made just as much of an impact on defense. Ranked second on Wasserman’s list, Downs may not have received as much fanfare as Smith — after all, people love touchdowns — but his contribution to Ohio State’s national championship run was every bit as critical.
Downs started his career at Alabama, where he made an immediate impression as a freshman All-American safety. However, his decision to transfer to Ohio State last offseason sent shockwaves through the college football world almost as big as Nick Saban retiring.
Wasserman called it “one of the most significant gets in transfer portal history,” and it’s easy to see why. Downs became arguably the best player on the number one defense in the nation, solidifying their secondary and providing leadership on the back end of the field.
Downs’ ability to diagnose plays, his physicality in the run game, and his coverage skills make him one of the most complete safeties in the nation. He finished the 2024 season with a laundry list of accolades, and his return to Ohio State gives their defense a rock-solid foundation to build upon for 2025.
The bright future of Ohio State
Wasserman’s article brings hope and excitement to Ohio State fans everywhere. Yes, the Buckeyes are losing many key starters, but having Jeremiah Smith and Caleb Downs returning ensures that the Buckeyes will remain a dominant force in college football. Smith will continue to be a nightmare for defenses, while Downs will be the quarterback of the defense, making crucial plays and setting the tone for the entire unit.
Wasserman also notes that while the national title game has just concluded and NFL Draft season is in full swing, it’s never too early to start thinking about next year. And for Ohio State, the thought of these two stars leading the way is more than enough to keep fans optimistic.
Smith and Downs represent not only the present but the future of Ohio State football, and their ability to perform at an elite level is what will keep the Buckeyes in national championship contention for years to come.
As Wasserman points out, “There is no offseason,” and for Ohio State, the offseason is all about preparing for another run at the top. With Smith and Downs returning, the foundation is set, and the Buckeyes are ready to reload and pursue the same goals in 2025.
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