Are Jeremiah Smith and Carnell Tate better than Justin Jefferson and Ja'Marr Chase?
Caleb Downs believes they have the potential to be, but they have not yet reached that level of production.
College Football / Player Spotlight
Ohio State Buckeyes' safety Caleb Downs has made a bold statement, suggesting that the team's star wide receiver duo, Jeremiah Smith and Carnell Tate, could potentially surpass the legendary LSU tandem of Justin Jefferson and Ja'Marr Chase...
Downs' comments, made on his "Downs 2 Business" podcast, highlight the confidence within the Ohio State camp regarding Smith and Tate's potential. While acknowledging the accomplishments of Jefferson and Chase, Downs believes that Smith and Tate are on track to reach unprecedented heights.
Smith, a sophomore, has already established himself as a dominant force, while Tate, a junior, is gaining traction as a top prospect for the 2026 NFL Draft. NFL scouts are particularly impressed with Tate's route-running abilities, catch-point prowess, and spatial manipulation skills.
However, replicating the historic production of Chase and Jefferson remains a significant challenge. In 2019, Chase recorded 84 receptions for 1,780 yards and 20 touchdowns, while Jefferson had 111 catches for 1,540 yards and 18 scores. The current Buckeye duo has a steep hill to climb to match those numbers.
Caleb Downs believes they have the potential to be, but they have not yet reached that level of production.
Tate is projected as a potential WR1 candidate and early-to-mid first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
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