Smith’s Senior Year Set for a Surge
Anthony Smith, a defensive lineman who grew up in Minnesota, has been selected for the 2026 Big Ten Football Preseason Honors list, a testament to his rising impact on the conference and the confidence placed in him by media voters.
At 6‑6 and 285 pounds, Smith combines size with agility, qualities that have made him one of the most disruptive forces on the defensive line this season.
In his junior year he logged 17.5 tackles for loss and led the Big Ten with 12.5 sacks, numbers that helped him earn a spot on the 2025 All‑Big Ten First Team.
His career totals now stand at 31.0 tackles for loss and 19.5 sacks, positioning him within striking distance of the program’s all‑time marks held by Willie VanDeSteeg, who amassed 43.5 tackles for loss, and Karon Riley, whose 29.0 sacks remain the school record.
Beyond the field, Smith’s community involvement earned him a nomination for the 2026 AFCA Good Works Team, highlighting his commitment off the gridiron.
The preseason list, compiled by media members and featuring 12 players from seven institutions, underscores the anticipation surrounding Smith’s senior campaign and the broader excitement within the conference.