The race for college football’s most prestigious awards is about to begin, and proven stars and rising sophomores are early frontrunners. From Clemson quarterback Cade Klubnik to Ohio State’s star tandem of Caleb Downs and Jeremiah Smith, here are six players positioned to add their name in the history books during the 2025-26 season:

Fred Biletnikoff Award: Jeremiah Smith

Few young receivers have generated as much hype as Ohio State’s Jeremiah Smith , who comes off a dominant freshman season. Smith led the Buckeyes with 1,315 receiving yards and 15 touchdowns in 2024, finishing ahead of first-round pick Emeka Egbuka.

The No. 1 recruit in the 2024 class delivered for the Buckeyes throughout their national title run, connecting with quarterback Will Howard for 381 yards and five touchd

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