Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Ohio State’s Jeremiah Smith Reacts to Historic Announcement

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Max Escarpio | Last updated Oct 16, 2025 5:54 AM ET

The No. 1 Ohio State Buckeyes are well on the way to possibly a Big Ten Conference title game and another deep College Football Playoff run.

Ohio State is undefeated through Week 7, and Julian Sayin has stepped in as the new quarterback.

Wide receiver Jeremiah Smith is also off to a strong start. He has 40 receptions for 505 yards with seven touchdowns.

In 2024, Smith had 57 catches for 934 yards with 10 touchdowns, so he is well on his way to breaking those numbers.

On Wednesday, the South Florida Express 7-on-7 football team inked a partnership with Panini America. This is the first time Panini America has entered into a deal with a 7-on-7 team, making it a historic deal for both sides.

Ohio State Buckeyes wide receiver Jeremiah Smith (4)Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images

"An unmatched history of shaping the future. We’re proud to announce our exclusive trading card partnership with the nation’s premier 7-on-7 program, @SouthFlExpress."

Smith, who was a part of the South Florida Express, reacted to the news when it came out on Wednesday with an emoji on X.

✊ https://t.co/3PbN9O5anB
— Jeremiah Smith (@Jermiah_Smith1) October 16, 2025

Panini America released an official statement about the partnership, and it is the first of its kind.

"Panini America, the world’s largest sports and entertainment collectibles company, has announced an exclusive, multi-year partnership with the South Florida Express (SFE), the nation’s first 7 on 7 football program, which has captured four national championships and served as a training ground for numerous NFL and college football players. It marks the first time Panini America has entered the 7 on 7 space."

Geno Smith, Travis Hunter, Amari Cooper, and Teddy Bridgewater are some current NFL players who played with the South Florida Express. Smith and current Ohio State teammate Carnell Tate were also members before coming to Columbus.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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