Not many programs hate each other more in college football than Michigan and Ohio State. It’s one of the sport’s greatest rivalries, and every game is a battle year after year.
Buckeyes superstar wide receiver Jeremiah Smith got his first taste of the rivalry last season, falling to the Wolverines in an unexpected loss. Recently, Smith was asked about Michigan, and he had some strong words for the Wolverines that are sparking backlash from fans.
Ohio State’s Jeremiah Smith Faces Backlash After Michigan Comments
Smith recently appeared on the “Triple Option” podcast, where legendary head coach Urban Meyer asked him how he feels about “The team up north.” As any Ohio State player would, Smith had some harsh words for the team and fans in Ann Arbor.
“Hate,” Smith said. “You know. With everything in me, I hate them.”
While Smith’s comments reflect how every Buckeye player and fan feels about the Wolverines, once they spread on X, it’s clear that some people were not happy.
One Michigan fan called the young wideout a loser for his comments on the Wolverines.
Loser.
Some people need to learn how to lose.— 〽️ichael 〽️. (@MichaelDM225) August 20, 2025
“Loser. Some people need to learn how to lose,” the fan said.
Another Michigan fan took a jab at Smith, pointing out his 2024 stat line against the Wolverines as well as Ohio State’s recent struggles against their bitter rival.
I would hate Michigan too if I got clamped up for 35 yards and an L.
5 straight coming
— Underwood Unleashed (@Underwood_szn) August 20, 2025
“I would hate Michigan too if I got clamped up for 35 yards and an L. 5 straight coming,” they posted on X.
Another person challenged Smith to back up his comments on the field, writing, “Well then beat them on the field.”
Ohio State fans didn’t stay quiet in the comments, with one agreeing with Smith and predicting future success against Michigan.
Those Michigan corners will be his son’s by the time he becomes draft eligible 😂
— B (@GoBucks5240) August 20, 2025
“Those Michigan corners will be his son’s by the time he becomes draft eligible,” they said.
It’s clear there’s no love lost between these fanbases, and while Smith’s comments are understandable given the rivalry, Michigan fans are right that he needs to prove himself in 2025.
The Wolverines have won four straight against the Buckeyes, and in their 2024 matchup, Smith was held to just 35 yards on five catches, his second-least productive game of the season. His struggles contributed to Ohio State’s offensive woes, as the team managed just 10 points in the loss.
The good news for Smith is that he and Ohio State have a chance for redemption this season when the Buckeyes face Michigan in their annual matchup on Saturday, November 29.
