Ohio State has two of the best wide receivers in the country.

Jeremiah Smith is one of the best players in the sport. Carnell Tate isn’t too far behind.

But the Buckeyes have something odd going on during Saturday’s matchup with Purdue.

At least to start the game, Tate is on the sideline.

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Why isn’t Carnell Tate playing?

There’s no official word on why Tate isn’t playing.

He is in uniform and on the sideline with his helmet.

But the Buckeyes ran their opening drive against the Boilermakers, and Tate just watched.

Carnell Tate was not in on Ohio State’s opening drive.

However, he’s in uniform on the sideline.

— The Buckeye Nut (@TheBuckeyeNut) November 8, 2025

Ohio State is heavily favored to beat Purdue. Whether or not Tate plays likely won’t matter on the scoreboard.

But it’s a curious situation and one worth watching as the game goes along.

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