Ohio State wide receivers Jeremiah Smith and Carnell Tate were among the 13 semifinalists named Monday for the 2025 Biletnikoff Award, despite both battling late-season injuries that have limited their availability.
The Tallahassee Quarterback Club (TQC) Foundation announced the semifinalists for the award, which honors the nation’s top FBS receiver regardless of position. Smith and Tate earned spots on the list after being part of one of the most productive passing attacks in the country.
Their recognition comes as the Buckeyes navigate the closing stretch of the season without a fully healthy receiving corps. Tate missed his second straight game in Saturday’s 48-10 win over UCLA. He was sidelined by an injury that Ohio State believes will not end his season. The Buckeyes remain optimistic he will return before the regular-season finale.
Smith played only part of the first half against the Bruins. Though active, he was clearly limited, finishing with four catches for 40 yards on 22 snaps before Ohio State shut him down as a precaution. Head coach Ryan Day said the program “played it safe” with its star receiver.
The pair remain key to the Buckeyes’ postseason push. Smith leads the team with 69 receptions for 902 yards and 10 touchdowns as one of the nation’s best. Tate is second on team with 39 catches for 711 yards and seven scores.
More: Ohio State might sit Smith and Tate for 'The Game' vs. Michigan
With Rutgers ahead in Week 13, Ohio State may again choose to rest both players as it eyes full health for its rivalry showdown with Michigan and an expected College Football Playoff run.
This year’s semifinalists alphabetically. Chris Bell (Louisville), Skyler Bell (UConn), Germie Bernard (Alabama), Chris Brazzell II (Tennessee), Omar Cooper Jr. (Indiana), Mario Craver (Texas A&M), Makai Lemon (USC), Eric McAlister (TCU), Duce Robinson (Florida State), Elijah Sarratt (Indiana), Danny Scudero (San Jose State), Jeremiah Smith (Ohio State) and Carnell Tate (Ohio State).
The Biletnikoff Award considers any pass-catching position and is based solely on single-season performance. Colorado’s Travis Hunter won the award in 2024.
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