Sat Nov 22 19:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Buckeyes’ Receiving Corps Decimated: Smith and Tate Out vs. Rutgers
Columbus, OH – In a major blow to the Ohio State offense, star wide receivers Jeremiah Smith and Carnell Tate will be sidelined for the Buckeyes’ Week 13 matchup against Rutgers, the university announced. The news, first reported by ESPN’s Pete Thamel, leaves quarterback Julian Sayin without his two primary targets as Ohio State looks to secure a crucial victory.
The availability report released Friday morning officially ruled both players out due to undisclosed injuries. Smith reportedly suffered an injury in the second quarter of last week’s game against UCLA and was seen limping on the sideline. This marks the first game Smith will miss in his Ohio State career. Tate has been battling a lower-body injury for several weeks, missing the previous two games against Purdue and UCLA.
Head Coach Ryan Day offered a brief update on the receivers earlier in the week, stating, “They’re working hard to get back on the field. That’s it. That’s what they’re focused on. I don’t have much more of an update.”
The absence of Smith and Tate is a significant setback for the Buckeyes. Smith leads the team with 902 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns on 69 receptions. Tate is second on the team with 711 receiving yards and seven touchdowns on 39 catches.
Sayin, who is a Heisman Trophy candidate according to BetMGM, will have to rely on other members of the receiving corps to step up in their absence. The Buckeyes will kick off against Rutgers at noon ET inside Ohio Stadium.
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