/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73511059/2147779076.0.jpg?ssl=1 "Major Statement: Ohio State Lands Two on Elite 2025 CFB Freaks List Top 10")
Buckeye Brilliance is shining brightly as Ohio State University celebrates the recognition of two of its athletes on Bruce Feldman’s prestigious 2025 College Football Freaks List. Wide receiver Jeremiah Smith and linebacker Sonny Styles have both earned coveted spots in the Top 10, underscoring the Buckeyes’ exceptional talent and solidifying their position as national championship contenders.
Ohio State Dominates Freaks List
The annual College Football Freaks List, compiled by Bruce Feldman of The Athletic, highlights the most physically gifted athletes in college football. The 2025 edition, released on Monday, August 4, 2025, features two Ohio State players in the top echelon, a testament to the program’s recruiting prowess and player development.
Jeremiah Smith: A Rare Breed
Sophomore wide receiver Jeremiah Smith secured the No. 1 spot on the list, lauded for his unparalleled combination of speed, explosiveness, and strength. According to Feldman, Smith’s athletic achievements are nothing short of astounding. His documented metrics include a top speed of 23.5 miles per hour, showcasing his breakaway speed on the field. He also boasts an 11-foot broad jump, demonstrating exceptional lower body power and explosiveness. Smith’s 38-inch vertical jump further exemplifies his athletic prowess, while his ability to bench press 225 pounds for 20 repetitions highlights his impressive strength.
Sonny Styles: Versatility and Power
Senior linebacker Sonny Styles earned the No. 10 spot on the Freaks List, solidifying Ohio State’s presence among the elite. Styles, a physically imposing athlete at 6-foot-5 and 243 pounds, has successfully transitioned from safety to linebacker, showcasing his adaptability and football IQ. His athletic metrics are equally impressive, mirroring Smith’s explosiveness with an 11-foot broad jump and exceeding it with a 40-inch vertical jump. Styles’s strength is undeniable, evidenced by his 675-pound squat. Like Smith, Styles can also reach speeds of 23.5 miles per hour, demonstrating a rare combination of size, strength, and speed for a linebacker.
Impact and Expectations
Team Depth Despite Losses
The presence of two Buckeyes in the Top 10 of the Freaks List is particularly noteworthy considering the team’s recent turnover. Ohio State lost 17 key contributors from its 2024 national championship-winning squad. Despite these losses, the program continues to attract and develop exceptional talent, reinforcing its status as a perennial powerhouse in college football. This depth of talent is a key factor in Ohio State’s continued success and its ability to compete for national championships year after year.
Championship Aspirations
With Smith and Styles leading the charge, expectations are high for the Buckeyes in 2025. Multiple sources, including 247 Sports, Eleven Warriors, and Sports Illustrated, have identified Ohio State as a strong contender for the national championship. Their exceptional athleticism and on-field performance are expected to be pivotal to the team’s success. The recognition on the Freaks List only adds to the pressure and excitement surrounding the upcoming season, as fans and analysts alike eagerly anticipate the impact of these two extraordinary athletes.
Analyst Perspectives
Various analysts have weighed in on the significance of Smith and Styles’ inclusion on the Freaks List. On The Rich Eisen Show, analysts discussed how these players exemplify the new breed of college football athlete, possessing a rare combination of size, speed, and strength. ClutchPoints highlighted the leadership roles that Smith and Styles are expected to assume, emphasizing their importance both on and off the field. Even outlets like GopherHole.com, typically focused on other teams, acknowledged the impressive talent residing in Columbus, demonstrating the widespread recognition of Ohio State’s athletic prowess.
Looking Ahead
The recognition of Jeremiah Smith and Sonny Styles on Bruce Feldman’s College Football Freaks List underscores Ohio State’s commitment to attracting and developing elite athletes. Their exceptional physical traits and on-field performance have set high expectations for the 2025 season, positioning the Buckeyes as strong contenders for the national championship. As the season approaches, all eyes will be on Smith and Styles as they lead Ohio State in pursuit of gridiron glory.
