Ohio State Stars Land Top Spots in 2025 College Football Rankings—But Not Everyone Agrees
The Ohio State Buckeyes are bringing back serious talent for the 2025 season—even after losing several key players to the NFL. Two Buckeyes have landed in the top 10 of On3.com’s list of the Top 100 college football players, and fans are buzzing.
Freshman wide receiver Jeremiah Smith took the No. 1 spot, while standout safety Caleb Downs came in at No. 3. Neither pick is all that shocking—especially in Downs’ case, as he’s widely projected to be a top pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Fans Split Over Caleb Downs’ Top Ranking
While Ohio State fans are excited to see two of their own ranked so high, some college football fans are questioning whether Downs deserves such a lofty spot—mainly because of his position. It’s rare for a safety to be ranked this high, and the debate has sparked some heated discussions on social media.
Despite the criticism, Downs has the stats to back up the hype. Standing 6 feet tall and weighing 205 pounds, he posted 81 tackles, 0.5 sacks, 2 interceptions, and 6 pass breakups during the 2024 season. His athleticism and impact on the field have made him one of the most respected defenders in college football.
What to Expect in 2025
Downs is heading into his junior season with high expectations. Even though he’s not a quarterback or a flashy wide receiver, his talent and leadership in the secondary make him a key player to watch. Whether or not fans agree with his ranking, there’s no denying he’ll be one of the most influential players on the field in 2025.
