You could make the argument that Ja’Kobi Lane is the most dynamic USC Trojans player on offense. You could also make the argument that after Jeremiah Smith of Ohio State, Lane could contend for the next-best receiver in the entire Big Ten.
And yet, you won’t find the name Ja’Kobi Lane on the 2025 Biletnikoff Preseason Watchlist.
After finishing 2nd in the Big Ten last year with 12 touchdowns, the committee decided that 47 other receivers were worthy of the watchlist, but not Lane.
USC Trojans WR Ja’Kobi Lane Left Off Biletnikoff Watch List
Lane finished last season with 43 catches, 525 yards, and the aforementioned 12 touchdowns. While they are not the gaudiest of numbers, compared to some of his counterparts, his ceiling alone makes him a viable candidate.
He and Makai Lemon (named to the list) are set to lead the USC Trojans’ offense to new heights. His size and catch radius are a mismatch for just about every DB in the country.
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Most around college football view Lane as a Top 15, at worst, or Top 10 receiver in the Big Ten conference. This is what makes his omission a bit perplexing.
Since the Biletnikoff Award was created, only one Trojan has won the award. That was Marqise Lee back in 2012. However, Lee was also left off the preseason watch list, only to get added during the season and then, ultimately, win the award.
Can Ja’Kobi Lane follow this same formula? Comment your thoughts below, Trojan Family!
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