Ohio State Stars Compete as Finalists for Nine National Awards

Ohio State University is poised to potentially enhance its trophy collection at the upcoming College Football Awards on December 12. The Buckeyes’ talents are recognized as finalists for nine prestigious national awards. Notably, a player from each level of the team’s defense has earned a finalist position.

Caleb Downs: A Defensive Powerhouse

Safety Caleb Downs stands out among the nominees, with recognition in four categories. He is a finalist for:

• Thorpe Award (Best Defensive Back)
• Chuck Bednarik Award (Best Defensive Player)
• Bronko Nagurski Trophy (Best Defensive Player)
• Lott IMPACT Trophy (Excellence on and off the field)

In the current season, Downs has recorded 49 tackles, including five for loss, alongside a sack, two interceptions, and a pass breakup. His performance has been pivotal in maintaining Ohio State’s top-ranked defense for 2025.

Julian Sayin: A Quarterback Sensation

Quarterback Julian Sayin is also in contention for multiple accolades. He is nominated for:

• Davey O’Brien Award (Best Quarterback)
• Maxwell Award (Best Player)

Sayin leads the nation with a remarkable completion percentage of 79.4%. He has thrown for 2,832 yards and 27 touchdowns, with only four interceptions. The announcement of Heisman Trophy finalists will follow the voting conclusion on December 8.

Jeremiah Smith: A Threat on the Field

Wide receiver Jeremiah Smith has earned a spot as a finalist for the Biletnikoff Award, awarded to the best receiver. Despite missing parts of the season due to injury, Smith has amassed 69 receptions for 902 yards and 10 touchdowns. His ability to draw defenders allows his teammates more opportunities to succeed, significantly impacting Sayin’s outstanding completion rate.

Arvell Reese: A Linebacker Star

Linebacker Arvell Reese is recognized with a nomination for the Butkus Award, honoring the nation’s best linebacker. This season, Reese has shone as one of college football’s breakout stars. He has tallied 59 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, and 6.5 sacks, showcasing his versatility and aggressiveness on the field.

Kayden McDonald: Dominating the Line

Defensive tackle Kayden McDonald rounds out the nominees, as a finalist for the Outland Trophy, given for excellence among interior linemen. His impressive statistics include 47 tackles, eight tackles for loss, three sacks, two forced fumbles, and a fumble recovery. McDonald’s presence has been pivotal in Ohio State’s run defense, which ranks second nationally, allowing only 80 yards per game.

Summary of Award Finalists

With so many players recognized, Ohio State has positioned itself as a strong contender for multiple national awards this season.