Ohio State’s Caleb Downs Calls Smith and Tate Best College Receiver Duo

Columbus, OH – The Ohio State football team remains atop the College Football Playoff rankings, showcasing an impressive blend of a strong defense and high-powered offense. With standout players like receiver duo Jeremiah Smith and Carnell Tate leading the charge, the Buckeyes stand out as a formidable force in college football.

Caleb Downs, a safety for the Buckeyes, shared his admiration for the offensive talents during a recent episode of his podcast with teammate Sonny Styles. He expressed extreme confidence in Smith and Tate, claiming they could be the best receiver duo in college football history, surpassing former LSU stars Ja'Marr Chase and Justin Jefferson.

“You can low-key give the nod to Jeremiah and Carnell,” Downs remarked. “If they keep playing at the level they are, it’s a real conversation.” So far this season, Smith has recorded 55 catches for 725 yards and nine touchdowns, while Tate follows closely with 39 receptions, 711 yards, and seven touchdowns.

While comparison to Chase and Jefferson—who both had standout seasons during LSU’s 2019 national title run—is lofty, Downs sees a bright future for his teammates. “Not yet,” he said, acknowledging the duo’s potential. “But at the end of the season, if they stay on the track they are, it’s a real conversation.”

Smith, only a sophomore, has at least one more year in college, while Tate, a junior, is already attracting attention as one of the top prospects for the upcoming NFL Draft in 2026.

The Buckeyes currently lead the nation with an 8-0 record and are positioned for a playoff run, showcasing their balanced offense and top-ranked defense.