Jahdae Barron Named Thorpe Award Finalist, Ohio State Defender Up for Two Awards, and Caleb Downs Announcement Made Ahead of Michigan Game.
Caleb Downs Named Finalist for Multiple Prestigious Awards as Ohio State Prepares for Michigan
COLUMBUS, Ohio — The No. 2 Ohio State Buckeyes are preparing for their biggest regular-season game, taking on the Michigan Wolverines in what promises to be another intense chapter of this historic rivalry.
As the final week of the regular season approaches, Ohio State football is also making major waves in the college football landscape with the announcement of several award finalists. On Thanksgiving Thursday, star defensive back and punt returner Caleb Downs was named a finalist for The Lott Trophy, which honors the defensive “Impact” Player of the Year.
In addition to his Lott Trophy nomination, Downs was also named a finalist for two other prestigious awards: the Chuck Bednarik Award and the Jim Thorpe Award. The Bednarik Award recognizes the best defensive player in college football, while the Thorpe Award is given to the nation’s top defensive back. Downs’ recognition for all three honors solidifies his place in Ohio State history alongside the program’s storied tradition of producing elite defensive talent. Chase Young (2019) is the only Buckeye to win the Bednarik Award, while Antoine Winfield (1998) and Malcolm Jenkins (2008) are Ohio State’s only winners of the Thorpe Award.
Downs, a sophomore transfer from Alabama, has made an immediate impact in his first season with the Buckeyes. After being named the SEC Freshman of the Year in 2023, he has continued to shine in Columbus. In 2024, Downs has accumulated 50 tackles and 6.5 tackles for loss, establishing himself as a key player on Ohio State’s defense.
Among Big Ten safeties who have played at least 406 snaps this season, Downs holds the second-best defensive grade, according to Pro Football Focus. His all-around contribution to the Buckeyes extends beyond defense as well. Downs has also played a role on special teams, highlighted by his 79-yard punt return touchdown against Indiana.
With Michigan on the horizon, Downs is expected to play a pivotal role in Ohio State’s efforts to secure another victory in this fierce rivalry. Since transferring from Alabama, he has not only lived up to the hype but is continuing to build a legacy at one of the nation’s premier football programs.
As Ohio State eyes its showdown with Michigan, Downs remains focused on the task at hand, knowing there is still plenty of work to be done in Columbus.
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