SKULL SESSION FIRESTARTERS: Jeremiah Smith and Caleb Downs Named Athlon Preseason All-Americans, While FSU QB Thomas Castellanos Throws Shade—“Alabama Doesn’t Have Nick Saban to Save Them in 2025”
The preseason buzz around college football never fails to stir anticipation and ignite debates, but few moments pack the layered punch of accolades and bulletin board material delivered in one headline. As the 2025 season approaches, Athlon Sports has released its prestigious preseason All-American list, and among the familiar powerhouses, two Ohio State superstars — Jeremiah Smith and Caleb Downs — have emerged as centerpieces of the Buckeyes’ title hopes. In the same breath that Buckeye Nation celebrates this nod to excellence, the college football world is set ablaze by fiery comments from Florida State quarterback Thomas Castellanos. With the Seminoles preparing to face Alabama in a highly anticipated 2025 clash, Castellanos didn’t hold back, declaring that the Crimson Tide are no longer shielded by their legendary former coach. “They don’t have Nick Saban to save them,” he said, a statement that echoes with provocation and confidence, signaling a shift in college football’s power dynamics.
Jeremiah Smith’s inclusion on Athlon’s Preseason All-American list comes as no surprise to anyone closely watching his trajectory. The former five-star recruit arrived at Ohio State with immense expectations, and despite the typical learning curve that comes with transitioning to the collegiate level, Smith has proven he’s anything but typical. Standing at 6-foot-3 with elite hands, crisp route-running, and rare athleticism, Smith’s rise has been meteoric. His freshman campaign saw flashes of brilliance, but it’s the offseason transformation — both physically and mentally — that has many analysts predicting a monster year in Columbus. The Buckeyes are known for their wide receiver factory, with names like Garrett Wilson, Chris Olave, and Marvin Harrison Jr. recently gracing the program. Smith appears ready to take his place in that lineage, not just as a successor but as a potential legend in his own right. Being named a Preseason All-American solidifies the national perception that he could be the best wide receiver in the country by the end of the year.
Equally important to Ohio State’s national championship ambitions is the presence of Caleb Downs, the dynamic safety who transferred from Alabama and immediately became the heartbeat of the Buckeyes’ secondary. Downs was already viewed as one of the premier defensive backs in the nation before his transfer, and his seamless integration into the Buckeyes’ defensive scheme has elevated an already formidable unit. His ability to read offenses, deliver timely hits, and blanket the field makes him not only a defensive anchor but a game-changer. Coaches and teammates rave about his football IQ and leadership, qualities that have become even more valuable as the Buckeyes eye a return to College Football Playoff glory. Like Smith, Downs was recognized by Athlon not only for past accomplishments but for the weight of expectation he carries into the 2025 season. For Ohio State to break through and win it all, Smith and Downs must play at the elite level Athlon projects — and there’s every indication they’re ready.
While Ohio State fans revel in preseason praise, the college football world can’t ignore the seismic ripple caused by Thomas Castellanos’ bold proclamation regarding Alabama. The Seminoles’ quarterback isn’t backing down from the spotlight, and with the Crimson Tide awaiting them in what promises to be a headline showdown, Castellanos has already thrown the first punch. His statement — “They don’t have Nick Saban to save them” — strikes at the very core of Alabama’s identity. For nearly two decades, Saban’s presence was the bedrock of the Crimson Tide dynasty. His retirement at the end of the 2024 season sent shockwaves through the sport, and while Alabama has named a successor and continues to recruit at a high level, the aura of invincibility has been cracked.
Castellanos’ comments reflect both confidence and strategy. The quarterback, who transferred to Florida State and quickly established himself as the leader of the offense, knows the importance of psychology in a high-stakes matchup. Alabama has long thrived on intimidation and legacy — two elements that may be diminished without Saban on the sidelines. By directly addressing the “Saban factor,” Castellanos is challenging the next wave of Crimson Tide players and coaches to prove that the dynasty isn’t finished. Whether his statement is bravado or insight, it has already achieved its purpose: putting added pressure on Alabama and shining a spotlight on the FSU matchup months in advance.
The context behind Castellanos’ assertion adds layers to the narrative. Florida State is desperate to return to national prominence. After flashes of success in the early 2020s, the program has struggled with consistency, coaching turnover, and recruiting battles with traditional SEC powerhouses. However, with Castellanos at the helm and a roster infused with talent and experience, the Seminoles believe they’re ready to reclaim their place among college football’s elite. Taking down Alabama — even a post-Saban version — would send a resounding message. Castellanos isn’t just predicting a win; he’s stating that Alabama’s mystique died with Saban’s exit. It’s a declaration that will be replayed endlessly in the lead-up to their clash and one that ensures this game won’t lack for drama or emotion.
Reactions to Castellanos’ remarks have ranged from admiration to outrage. Florida State fans see their quarterback as a fearless leader, willing to speak his truth and back his team in the face of one of the sport’s most decorated programs. Alabama fans, on the other hand, view the comments as disrespectful and premature, pointing to the depth and talent that remains in Tuscaloosa. College football insiders have chimed in, noting that while Saban’s absence will be felt, Alabama still boasts one of the strongest infrastructures in the sport — elite assistants, top-tier facilities, and a culture built on excellence. The question isn’t whether Alabama will remain good; it’s whether they’ll remain great.
This war of words, paired with the preseason accolades for Smith and Downs, represents the new landscape of college football. The sport is evolving rapidly — with NIL, the transfer portal, and conference realignment reshaping traditional power structures. Players now carry not only physical talent but the media savvy to control narratives and fuel rivalries. Jeremiah Smith and Caleb Downs exemplify the former, having earned respect through their play and preparation. Castellanos is embracing the latter, choosing to speak boldly and challenge one of the sport’s sacred institutions.
Ohio State’s presence in the preseason All-American spotlight is nothing new, but it carries added weight this year. The Buckeyes are entering a pivotal campaign. After falling short in previous playoff appearances, the pressure is on to deliver a championship. With Smith catching passes and Downs leading the defense, the team has the firepower to dominate. Yet success in college football is never guaranteed. Injuries, upsets, and unforeseen challenges lurk every fall Saturday. That’s why these preseason nods, while exciting, are just the beginning. The real story will be written in how these stars perform when the stakes are highest.
