Ohio State expects star receivers Jeremiah Smith and Carnell Tate back against Michigan, boosting the offense heading into The Game. Both are listed as questionable and will play, barring something unforeseen. 

Ohio State should enter today’s matchup against Michigan with its full complement of offensive firepower, as star receivers Jeremiah Smith and Carnell Tate are both expected to return from injury.

Smith, who was banged up over the last couple of weeks and sat out against Rutgers, is cleared and available. Tate, who has missed the past month, is also ready to go. Their return gives freshman quarterback Julian Sayin his top two playmakers back on the field in the biggest game of the year.

Today also marks Jeremiah Smith’s 20th birthday, adding another layer of emotion to a matchup he has openly anticipated since the summer. Smith famously said he did not plan on losing again to the team up north, and Ohio State has had this game circled for months. According to program insiders, that anticipation has been shared throughout the locker room.

Head coach Ryan Day reinforced a consistent message all week: “It’s about us. It’s about our process.” Players echoed that same mentality, emphasizing routine, preparation, and staying grounded. In a notable shift from tradition, the Buckeyes flew to Ann Arbor on Friday evening rather than taking the usual bus ride—an intentional move to maintain their standard road-game routine.

Around the program, the vibe feels different from recent years. Observers noted a quiet confidence among Day and his players—loose, composed, and far less tense than previous Michigan weeks. That does not guarantee a victory, but it does signal a shift in approach.

This year, Ohio State’s emphasis isn’t solely on the ground game or trying to win with brute-force toughness. The priority is winning by any means necessary while playing true Ohio State football.

Having Smith and Tate back gives the Buckeyes a chance to do exactly that. Both receivers are expected to play significant roles, though a potential pitch count later in the game remains possible.

Another name to watch is tight end Max Klare. Michigan has struggled to defend tight ends this season, and with defensive attention likely focused on Smith and Tate, Klare could become a key target in Ohio State’s passing attack.

With the offense at full strength, the Buckeyes enter The Game with renewed belief. Ryan Day’s team is ready to play Ohio State football.