Ohio State AD Gene Smith provides update on NIL climate and more

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — Ohio State athletic director Gene Smith had a news conference Wednesday to give his thoughts on the Name, Image and Likeness climate, how it’s impacted Ohio State so far and much more.

One of the biggest points of emphasis from Smith is a belief that NIL should be federally regulated.

“I’m hopeful that at some point in time we do get federal legislation,” Smith said. “In the interim, it’s the wild, wild west.”

Although the NIL era has been challenging for athletic departments across the country, Smith said it’s been worth the added work to see athletes be able to provide for their families and pay for schooling for those not on a full scholarship.

Smith was asked also about the College Football Playoff expanding and said he’d be ‘surprised’ if it doesn’t expand to 12 teams eventually.

When asked about hosting a CFP game, Smith said he would recommend the game be played at Lucas Oil Stadium because of weather conditions in Columbus in December.

Another

Here are more highlights of what he said from NBC4 sports reporter Justin Holbrock.