OSU's Jeremiah Smith & Caleb Downs Top Heisman Finishes

Buckeyes place three players in Heisman Trophy top 10 for first time since 2020

Apr. 12, 2026 at 8:41am

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A fractured, multi-perspective painting breaking down a college football game or match into sharp, overlapping geometric planes of color, with players and action deconstructed into abstract shapes.Ohio State's standout Heisman Trophy finishers are celebrated through a cubist, geometric interpretation of the sport's top individual award.Charlotte Today

Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith finished sixth in Heisman Trophy voting, while safety Caleb Downs came in ninth. The Buckeyes are the first school since 2020 to place three players in the Heisman top 10, with quarterback Julian Sayin also earning an invitation to the ceremony.

Why it matters

Ohio State's strong Heisman representation underscores the depth and talent of the Buckeyes' roster, with multiple standout performers on both offense and defense. This achievement also highlights the program's continued national prominence and ability to develop elite college football talent.

The details

Smith had a standout season, tallying 80 receptions for 1,086 yards and 11 touchdowns, while Downs racked up 60 tackles, one sack, and two interceptions. They join Sayin, who will attend the Heisman ceremony, in the top 10 finishers.

  • The Heisman Trophy finalists were revealed on Thursday, December 12, 2026.
  • The Heisman Trophy presentation will take place on Saturday, December 14, 2026.

The players

Jeremiah Smith

Ohio State wide receiver who finished sixth in Heisman Trophy voting after a season with 80 receptions for 1,086 yards and 11 touchdowns.

Caleb Downs

Ohio State safety who finished ninth in Heisman Trophy voting after recording 60 tackles, one sack, and two interceptions.

Julian Sayin

Ohio State quarterback who was invited to attend the Heisman Trophy presentation in New York City.

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What’s next

The Heisman Trophy presentation will take place on Saturday, December 14, 2026, where Ohio State's representatives will find out their final standings.

The takeaway

Ohio State's strong Heisman Trophy representation, with three players finishing in the top 10, demonstrates the program's continued ability to develop elite talent on both offense and defense. This achievement highlights the Buckeyes' national prominence and the depth of their roster.