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Gene Smith, Ohio State AD, shares initial reaction to proposed subdivision of college sports

Paul Harvey

By Paul Harvey

Published:

Gene Smith is among the first collegiate leaders to react to the new proposal unveiled by NCAA president Charlie Baker.

On Tuesday, a proposal was unveiled by Baker to create a new subdivision of Division I athletics. Programs would be allowed to opt in or out of that new subdivision, but those that opt in would be required to invest a minimum standard in their athletes.

A key part of the proposal would be allowing programs to orchestrate NIL deals directly with their athletes. Programs in the subdivision would also be allowed to work together on setting the rules for scholarship limits and on-field coaches.

As for Smith, he did not hesitate to express support for the idea on social media. He thanked Baker for his leadership and expressed being “100% supportive” of Baker’s efforts.

“Intercollegiate Athletics needs the proactive and forward-thinking you are providing,” wrote Smith.

It is not surprising to see Smith expressing support for the endeavor as the AD of Ohio State. The Buckeyes would almost certainly be one of the programs to opt into the new subdivision if it is ever created under Baker’s proposal.

Paul Harvey

Paul is a lifelong fan and student of all things college football. He has been covering college football since 2017 and the B1G since 2018.