Smith, in a recent interview, added some fuel to the rivalry's fire by taking his first shot at Michigan of the 2025 campaign. Smith made an appearance in an Aug. 20 episode of "The Triple Option" podcast, which is hosted by FOX Sports personalities Urban Meyer, Mark Ingram and Rob Stone.

Ohio State star receiver Jeremiah Smith said his hate for Michigan started on a recruiting visit as a high school prospect:

Ohio State superstar Jeremiah Smith is just one year into his college football career but is already deeply entrenched in the Buckeyes' bitter rivalry with Michigan. When former Ohio State coach Urban Meyer asked him what first comes to mind when he hears the words "the team up north," Smith did not hesitate: "Hate."