Carnell Tate, the underrated Ohio State wideout, aims for a more significant role as the Buckeyes attempt to defend its national title.
Carnell Tate Stays Put at Ohio State
When Ohio State hoisted the College Football Playoff trophy, many anticipated a mass exodus from Columbus. To an extent, you saw the expected turnover. Will Howard, Emeka Egbuka, Quinshon Judkins, and TreVeyon Henderson will hear their names called in the 2025 NFL Draft.
The attention now surrounds whether quarterback Julian Sayin and Jeremiah Smith can carry the Buckeyes back to the CFP championship. Trying to get a new signal-caller up to speed could cause growing pains. Yet, people forget about Tate.
In a world where Ryan Williams and Smith dominate the headlines, Smith’s teammate will also return to Columbus. Tate spoke to Adam King, sports reporter for WBNS TV in Columbus,” stating:
“The plan was never for me to leave,” Tate said. “I don’t know where that came from, where that started. I bleed Ohio State.”
Two quick notes from talking with Carnell Tate:
– He’s excited for Brian Hartline to take over the offense
– He doesn’t know where the idea he was leaving started… “I bleed Ohio State”
It feels like Tate is one of the most underrated receivers going into next season: pic.twitter.com/8HLxKMlXnm
— Adam King (@AdamKing10TV) February 24, 2025
In a world where NIL money flows like beer on St. Patrick’s Day, the junior chose to refuse. I cannot imagine the number of zeroes in those offers. Not to mention, he becomes the unquestioned star wideout.
In return, he would see copious targets and the spotlight. After all, not many five-star recruits would accept that someone else would receive the lion’s share of the passes.
On the other hand, in Columbus, Tate operates in the second role to Jeremiah Smith. Ni, this does not come off as a Batman/Robin situation. His ability to make big plays.
Remember, even as the third wideout, he rocked up 733 yards and four touchdowns. With this in mind, envision a more significant spot within the confines of the defense.
While Chip Kelly leaves Ohio State for the Las Vegas Raiders, a familiar face takes over as offensive coordinator. Brian Hartline knows Tate well, having served as the offensive coordinator and wide receivers coach for two seasons. In addition, no one knows how to manage deep receiver rooms better.
Hartline deserves credit for making the Buckeyes a prime destination for receivers. He brought Garrett Wilson, Marvin Harrison Jr, Chis Olave, Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Smith, and Tate to the Buckeyes. A former Buckeye in his own right, Hartline understands the human aspect of playing the position.
Kelly did not seem to convey that quality. In the long run, that could make Tate a better pro.
In no uncertain terms, college football is a business. Granted, fans still root, and donors still write checks. However, you rarely see or hear anyone claim that level of school loyalty.
Tate, by his words, appears to honestly want to stay in town. Now, that still applies if he declares for the 2026 NFL Draft.
Staying in one place and fighting up the depth chart instead of leaving deserves commendation.
Most importantly, Hartline can rely upon the veteran to lead the receivers, as he knows exactly what the offensive coordinator wants. Consequently, the experienced wideouts will provide the quarterback with the support needed to emerge from the trap game unscathed.
In the big picture, the Ohio State Buckeyes will need to answer questions on offense, especially at quarterback and running back. Yet, at wide receiver, they look ready to defend their championship. A player like Carnell Tate provides the balance to smooth over rough spots.
KEEP READING: Ohio State Season Picks and Predictions — Will They Repeat as National Champions?
Meanwhile, his hands and surgical route running on the field allow Smith’s natural game-breaking ability to take over. The Buckeyes start the 2025 season at home against Texas, which looks like a high-scoring affair.
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in football, basketball, and more!
