Throughout this season, wide receivers have been at the centerstage of the sport. We’ve seen some rise to the top out of nowhere, while others have maintained their spectacular play from last year. Let’s rank the top 10 receivers in college football based on production and physical traits.
1. Jeremiah Smith, Ohio State
There’s been some discussion lately of other receivers contending for the top spot, but I simply don’t buy into that narrative. Smith is a freak of nature, standing at 6 feet, 3 inches tall and weighing 223 pounds. We’ve rarely seen a player with the catch radius and hands that Smith has, but he combines that with elite production. Last season, Smith racked in 1,315 yards with 15 touchdowns as a true freshman. 18 years old! This year he has totaled 463 yards and six touchdowns – tied for second in the nation – through 5 games. The term “generational” gets thrown around a bit too much nowadays, but he is a generational talent.
2. Jordyn Tyson, Arizona State
I can’t even imagine where Arizona State would be as a program right now if they had Tyson healthy against Texas in the playoffs last year. He suffered a collarbone injury in their last regular season game against Arizona, knocking him out of the Big 12 Championship and the Peach Bowl. Tyson had 1,101 yards last season with 10 touchdowns, making highlight play after highlight play. This year, he has returned to form with 483 yards and a league-leading seven touchdowns. Without Tyson, Arizona State might not be a viable Big 12 contender.
3. Carnell Tate, Ohio State
If Jeremiah Smith did not exist, Tate might be the best receiver in the country. However, he does, and he plays on the same field as Tate. That makes it hard for him to fully match his potential. When you look at the film, however, Tate is undoubtedly one of the best in the sport. His spatial awareness and body control is off the charts, often generating big plays when the opposition keys in on his teammates. If Tate ever transfers, which is unlikely, he would be the best wide receiver on nearly every other team.
4. Makai Lemon, USC
USC is known for its aerial attack, and Lemon fits that mold perfectly. He’s really taken a leap this year, already receiving 589 yards, which is second in the nation, and five touchdowns. His skills as a separator are arguably at the top of all receivers in the country, often being found wide open for huge plays that Jayden Maiava can hit.
5. Cam Coleman, Auburn
Of the players that fit in the categories of production or talent, Coleman sits at the top of the “freak” list. The sophomore out of Alabama is 6 foot, 3 inches tall, weighing in at 201 pounds. His height is definitely something that stands out, but his knack for catching anything put within a seemingly 10 mile radius of him is remarkable. No disrespect to Jackson Arnold, but if you pair Coleman with a quarterback that can get him the ball consistently, he will be a top 10 pick in the NFL draft when the time comes.
6. Mario Craver, Texas A&M
I wouldn’t say Craver came out of nowhere this season, but he certainly wasn’t expected to perform at this level. He’s an incredibly undersized transfer from Mississippi State at 5-foot, 9 inches and 165 pounds. Not exactly what you dream of in a top receiver, but production doesn’t lie. This year, Craver has amassed 557 yards and four touchdowns with 18.6 yards per catch, which showcases his big play ability.
7. Germie Bernard, Alabama
I know this is controversial, but Bernard has some incredible skills that make him a top receiver. He is incredibly mature and smart, utilizing that to sit down in soft spots in the defense and sacrifice the big play to keep the offense on the field. He currently leads Alabama in receiving yards and touchdowns with 392 and five apiece. Bernard has been the top option for Ty Simpson this season, and I don’t blame him.
8. Ryan Williams, Alabama
I can already hear the groans about Williams being found all the way down here and below his teammate, but hear me out. If you take a look at Williams’ production after the Georgia duel in week 6 last season, Williams has surpassed 100 yards in a game just once, against Wisconsin in week 3 of this year. That doesn’t scream elite to me. However, there is no denying that he is talented and still one of the top receivers in the country. His ability to make highlight plays is off the charts with his amazing catch radius. However, he has struggled with the dropsies a bit this year, so I have him a little lower than most.
9. Elijah Sarratt, Indiana
After last season, Sarratt was already near the top of this list, but we wanted to see a bit more out of him after a possible one-hit wonder with Indiana. However, the Hoosiers and Sarratt have shut up the doubters this year. Sarratt has played like a top ten receiver, so that’s where he finds himself on this list. His RPO style offense definitely benefits him, but he still demonstrates some of the most versatile skills at the receiver position.
10. Chris Brazzell II, Tennessee
Brazzell II has been one of the best in the sport this season. With 531 yards and seven touchdowns, there’s no denying he’s incredible. His hands are arguably the best in the nation, making some of the best highlight plays so far this season. I wonder if you plug Brazzell II in a different offense if his production would dip a little. Regardless, I still think he’s one of the best in the country.
Honorable Mentions
Chris Bell, Louisville
Eric McAlister, TCU
Bryant Wesco Jr., Clemson
KC Concepcion, Texas A&M
Zachariah Branch, Georgia
C.J. Daniels, Miami
Nick Marsh, Michigan State
Denzel Boston, Washington
Malachi Toney, Miami
Dallas Wilson, Florida
Want more Sandman? Come connect with us here at sandmansports.com/onestopshop
