The Ohio State Buckeyes had an unforgettable season in 2025, with their defense being the talk of the town. However, their offense also had its fair share of standout players, namely Jeremiah Smith, Carnell Tate, and Julian Sayin. These three players were the driving force behind the Buckeyes’ success and were even in the running for the prestigious Heisman Trophy. Unfortunately, they were ultimately overshadowed by Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza. But as we take an early look at the 2026 Heisman Trophy, it’s clear that Julian Sayin and Jeremiah Smith are destined for a major conflict.
Julian Sayin, a junior wide receiver, had a breakout season in 2025, recording 1,500 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns. His speed and agility on the field were unmatched, making him a nightmare for opposing defenses. Sayin’s impressive performance earned him a spot on the Heisman charts, and he was considered a top contender for the award.
On the other hand, Jeremiah Smith, a senior running back, was a force to be reckoned with on the ground. He rushed for over 1,200 yards and scored 15 touchdowns, making him a crucial part of the Buckeyes’ offense. Smith’s powerful runs and ability to break tackles caught the attention of many, and he climbed up the Heisman charts alongside Sayin.
But as the season progressed, it became clear that Sayin and Smith were not the only players vying for the Heisman. Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza emerged as a strong contender, and his outstanding performances put him at the top of the Heisman race. Despite Sayin and Smith’s impressive stats, they were unable to overtake Mendoza, who ultimately won the Heisman Trophy.
However, with both Sayin and Smith returning for the 2026 season, it’s safe to say that the competition for the Heisman will be fierce. Sayin will be looking to build on his success from last season and establish himself as one of the best wide receivers in the country. On the other hand, Smith will be determined to prove that he is the best running back in the nation and make up for his near miss at the Heisman.
But what makes this rivalry even more intriguing is the fact that Sayin and Smith are not just teammates; they are also roommates. They have been living together since their freshman year, and their friendship has only grown stronger over the years. However, as they both have their sights set on the Heisman, it’s inevitable that their friendship will be put to the test.
Despite the potential conflict, Sayin and Smith have a deep respect for each other’s talents and have always pushed each other to be better. They both understand that their individual success is crucial for the team’s success, and they will do whatever it takes to help the Buckeyes win a national championship.
In an interview, Sayin said, “Jeremiah is like a brother to me. We have a healthy competition, and it only makes us better players. We both want to win the Heisman, but at the end of the day, we are teammates, and our ultimate goal is to win a national championship for Ohio State.”
Smith echoed the same sentiments, saying, “Julian is a phenomenal player, and I have nothing but respect for him. We both have our eyes on the Heisman, but we also know that our team’s success comes first. I believe our friendship will only make us stronger competitors on the field.”
As we eagerly await the 2026 college football season, all eyes will be on Julian Sayin and Jeremiah Smith. Their rivalry for the Heisman Trophy will undoubtedly be one of the most exciting storylines to follow. But no matter who comes out on top, one thing is for sure – the Buckeyes will have a dynamic duo leading their offense, and that’s a win in itself.
