Eric Boggs
Ohio State continues to set the standard in the Big Ten, with three of its brightest stars—safety Caleb Downs, wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, and linebacker Sonny Styles—being named to the 2025 Big Ten Preseason Honors team. These selections were made by Big Ten media and representatives from the Big Ten Network, and once again, the Buckeyes’ talent stood above the rest.
Jeremiah Smith was the only unanimous selection on the list, a feat that underscores his national stature as one of the most electrifying young players in all of college football. Ohio State and Penn State tied for the most selections with three apiece, signaling a likely collision course atop the Big Ten standings. But make no mistake—Ohio State’s trio has not just earned these accolades; they represent the foundation of a team that fully intends to repeat as national champions.
Jeremiah Smith enters his sophomore campaign with sky-high expectations after a stellar freshman season. Ranked as the No. 1 overall college football player by Pro Football Focus, Smith has been named a preseason All-American by Walter Camp, Phil Steele, and Athlon’s. His route-running, explosiveness, and competitive edge have already drawn comparisons to some of the greats that have come through Brian Hartline’s wide receiver room.
Flanking him at media days is Caleb Downs, who transferred from Alabama ahead of the 2024 season and instantly became a force in Ohio State’s secondary. Downs is ranked No. 2 overall by PFF, behind only Smith, and has appeared on nearly every preseason All-America list while earning a spot on the Lott IMPACT Trophy watch list—a reflection of his all-around excellence and leadership in the back end of Jim Knowles’ defense.
Sonny Styles rounds out the group, a junior linebacker whose size, versatility, and intelligence make him one of the most dynamic defenders in the country. He also landed on the Lott IMPACT Trophy watch list and earned second-team All-American honors from both Phil Steele and Athlon’s. His presence, both as a physical force and an emotional leader, continues to be a cornerstone for a defense that expects to be the best in the Big Ten, if not the nation.
These three selections to the Big Ten Preseason Honors team aren’t just symbolic—they are the clearest sign yet that Ohio State has reloaded with top-tier leadership and elite playmakers on both sides of the football.
While these individual accolades are impressive, they speak to something larger: the sustained excellence of the Ohio State program under Ryan Day. From Marvin Harrison Jr. and J.T. Tuimoloau in 2023 to Caleb Downs and Jeremiah Smith in 2025, Ohio State consistently sends its best to represent the conference at media days, and those players deliver on the field.
With other preseason All-Americans like Max Klare, Carnell Tate, and more waiting in the wings, the Buckeyes are once again poised for a special season. The message is clear—Ohio State is not just participating in the national conversation; they’re leading it. As the 2025 season nears, the rest of the Big Ten should take notice. Columbus isn’t just the heart of it all—it’s the epicenter of college football excellence.
