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Gus Johnson Names 2 Best Players in College Football Without Hesitation

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nick Meyer | Last updated Aug 30, 2025 1:49 PM ET

The Ohio State Buckeyes prepared to face the Texas Longhorns in a top three showdown on Saturday at the Horseshoe in Columbus, Ohio, also known as Ohio Stadium.

The day started off in an emotional fashion as both ESPN's College GameDay show and Fox's Big Noon Kickoff show honored Lee Corso, the legendary former Indiana coach and college football prognosticator/analyst.

The start of the Ohio State vs. Texas game also included a surprising turn of events as Fox announcer Gus Johnson named his top two players in the country alongside color analyst Joel Klatt.

Johnson named a pair of Ohio State Buckeyes, wide receiver Jeremiah Smith and safety Caleb Downs, as his top two players in college football ahead of Saturday's game.

Smith turned heads with explosive performances during the 2024-25 College Football Playoff as a freshman while Downs came over from Alabama last offseason, fortifying the Buckeyes' defense with excellent play in the box against the run and in coverage on the back end.

Johnson doubled down on his Smith pick as the Longhorns turned the ball over on downs in the first quarter. He chose the Buckeyes receiver over his teammate for best player in America.

"Coming up, we'll watch the best player in college football, Jeremiah Smith!" he exclaimed in his usual excited tone.

Smith, Downs Lead Buckeyes

The Buckeyes' twin superstars haven't gotten as much attention as expected this offseason, lost amid speculation about Heisman Trophy contenders Arch Manning of Texas, DG Lagway of Florida, Garrett Nussmeier of LSU and others.

Michigan freshman Bryce Underwood has also garnered his fair share of headlines while Smith and Downs have seemingly been relegated to the backrgound.

Smith and Downs were both in action Saturday in a defensive battle early against Texas. Smith took the attention of multiple defenders allowing Max Klare to make a big first down catch, later dropping a pass as the first quarter wound down.

Sayin, Smith Take on Longhorns

Smith's success is partially dependent on Buckeyes QB Julian Sayin, the running game led by James Peoples and others, which could explain why he hasn't gotten as much Heisman love as expected.

"Now Julian Sayin has the keys to the car here for the Buckeyes," Fox announcer Joel Klatt said as the Buckeyes took over on offense in a 0-0 game early.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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