Jeremiah Smith, Julian Sayin, Fernando Mendoza Earn Big Ten Honors
Ohio State’s football program continues to shine as the Big Ten honors roll in for 2025. The Buckeyes celebrated multiple accolades, highlighting their standout players during the award announcements.
Jeremiah Smith Claims Big Ten Receiver of the Year
Jeremiah Smith has been named the Big Ten Receiver of the Year for the second consecutive time. He finished the regular season with impressive statistics, totaling 72 receptions, 942 yards, and 11 touchdowns throughout 11 games.
Julian Sayin Named Freshman of the Year
Ohio State quarterback Julian Sayin earned the Big Ten Freshman of the Year title. He made headlines with his remarkable performance, setting an NCAA single-season completion percentage record at 78.9%. Sayin amassed 3,065 passing yards and 30 touchdowns.
Fernando Mendoza Secures Major Awards
Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza was honored as the Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year and the Big Ten Quarterback of the Year. He completed 72% of his passes for 2,758 yards and 32 touchdowns, while throwing just five interceptions.
All-Big Ten Honorees from Ohio State
Ohio State’s roster features several players recognized in the All-Big Ten selections:
- Jeremiah Smith: First-team All-Big Ten (coaches/media)
- Julian Sayin: Second-team All-Big Ten (coaches/media)
- Carnell Tate: First-team All-Big Ten (coaches/media)
- Max Klare: First-team All-Big Ten (coaches/media)
- Luke Montgomery: Second-team All-Big Ten (coaches/media)
- Austin Siereveld: Second-team (coaches), Third-team (media)
- Bo Jackson: Second-team (coaches), Third-team (media)
- Tegra Tshabola: Third-team (media)
- Carson Hinzman: Third-team (media)
- Phillip Daniels: Third-team (media)
Defensive and Special Teams Highlights
Ohio State’s defense was also well-represented in the All-Big Ten selections:
- Caleb Downs: Defensive Player of the Year, First-team All-Big Ten
- Kayden McDonald: Defensive Lineman of the Year, First-team All-Big Ten
- Arvell Reese: Linebacker of the Year, First-team All-Big Ten
- Sonny Styles: First-team All-Big Ten
- Caden Curry: Second-team (coaches), First-team (media)
Outstanding Contributions from Ohio State Players
The Buckeyes had a total of 19 players recognized across the first, second, and third All-Big Ten teams. This included five individual award winners: Smith, Sayin, Caleb Downs, Arvell Reese, and Kayden McDonald.
Ohio State’s offensive line played a crucial role, allowing only six sacks all season, the second-best record nationally. Their effectiveness contributed to a strong run game, averaging 4.8 yards per carry.
This year’s honors showcase the talent and hard work of Ohio State’s players, setting the stage for their performance in the upcoming Big Ten Championship Game.
