Hold onto your helmets, because the race for the Biletnikoff Award is heating up, and Joel Klatt has just dropped his midseason top five contenders. But here's where it gets controversial: Klatt has already crowned his frontrunner, and it might not be who you expect. Let’s dive into the standout wide receivers who are making waves in college football this season—and trust me, you won’t want to miss this lineup.
Jeremiah Smith, Ohio State (Midseason Winner)
Joel Klatt’s top pick for the Biletnikoff Award right now is Ohio State’s Jeremiah Smith. After a jaw-dropping freshman season that cemented his status as one of the nation’s best, Smith is once again dominating the field. With 40 catches for 505 yards, seven touchdowns, and 12.6 yards per catch, he’s proving why he’s a force to be reckoned with. But here’s the kicker: Smith still has another year of college football ahead of him before he even thinks about the NFL. Could this be the year he takes home the Biletnikoff? Klatt thinks so—but what do you think?
Makai Lemon, USC
Makai Lemon is having a breakout season for the USC Trojans, and it’s impossible to ignore. After a solid sophomore year, Lemon is on pace to shatter his previous records. Through six games, he’s racked up 44 catches for 682 yards, six touchdowns, and 15.5 yards per catch—oh, and let’s not forget that rushing touchdown. With USC sitting pretty at 5-1 and ranked in the top 20, Lemon’s performance is a big reason why the Trojans are contenders this year. And this is the part most people miss: Lemon’s consistency and big-play ability make him a dark horse in this race.
Mario Craver, Texas A&M
Mario Craver might have fewer catches than some of his competitors, but don’t let that fool you. Since transferring from Mississippi State, Craver has been lighting up defenses with his explosive plays. He’s got 32 catches for 634 yards, four touchdowns, and an impressive 19.8 yards per catch. Plus, he’s added a rushing touchdown to his resume. Here’s the controversial part: While some argue his lower catch count should keep him out of the top tier, others say his yards-per-catch average makes him a game-changer. Where do you stand?
Chris Brazzell II, Tennessee
Chris Brazzell II is in the midst of a career year for the Tennessee Volunteers. After two seasons at Tulane, Brazzell has found his stride in Knoxville. He’s already set a personal best in touchdowns this season, and he’s showing no signs of slowing down. With 32 catches for 536 yards, seven touchdowns, and 16.8 yards per catch, Brazzell is a legitimate threat in the Biletnikoff conversation. But here’s the question: Can he keep up this pace and edge out the competition?
Elijah Sarratt, Indiana
Elijah Sarratt is a big reason why Indiana’s offense is firing on all cylinders this season. Following head coach Curt Cignetti from James Madison, Sarratt has seamlessly transitioned to the Big Ten and is now leading the Hoosiers’ receiving corps. With 39 catches for 533 yards, seven touchdowns, and 13.7 yards per catch, he’s been a reliable target for his quarterback. And this is the part most people miss: Sarratt’s ability to make clutch catches in critical moments could be the X-factor that pushes him toward the Biletnikoff.
As the season unfolds, these five wide receivers are setting the stage for an exciting race to the Biletnikoff Award. But here’s the real question: Did Klatt get it right with Jeremiah Smith as his midseason winner, or is there another contender who deserves the top spot? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—this debate is just getting started!
