The longstanding rivalry between Ohio State University and the University of Michigan has spilled over into the legal system.
On Wednesday, OSU filed an opposition to a trademark application filed by The Brown Jug, Inc., a restaurant located just over a mile from Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor. The restaurant is seeking federal trademark registration for the phrase “Buckeye Tears,” which will be used on the beer and liquor products it serves. Currently, “Buckeye Tears” is available on draft for $7.
The name is a nod to Ohio State’s mascot, the Buckeye, and adds to the two fan bases’ already heated rivalry.
OSU’s legal team claims that the name “Buckeyes tears” could lead consumers to believe the university is associated with or endorses these alcoholic beverages.
The Brown Jug is still having fun online despite the fact that the name is now in court. A Facebook video from August 28 shows an employee throwing ice at another person. The caption reads, “Looks like OSU wants to trademark ‘Buckeye Tears’…” Funny, we’ve been serving them for years.”
In its filing with the United States Patent and Trademark Office, OSU emphasized the strong performance of its licensing program, which has generated more than $145 million in royalties and approximately $2.2 billion in retail sales over the last decade.
The university also claims that linking its beloved “Buckeyes” moniker to alcohol products may harm its reputation and dilute the brand’s strength.
The Brown Jug’s application was filed last year on a “intent to use” basis, which means that the phrase “Buckeye Tears” has yet to be commercially used. To date, it appears on only a few menu items, and the restaurant has avoided using any Ohio State trademarks, logos, or school colors.
The Brown Jug has until October 6 to officially respond to OSU’s opposition. The proposed timeline suggests that the legal dispute could last until 2027 before being resolved.
This trademark dispute is the most recent chapter in the storied Ohio State-Michigan rivalry, which dates back to 1897. Michigan has dominated recent games, winning the last four. A 2025 victory would be the rival’s longest winning streak in the series since the 1920s.
OSU won the 2025 College Football Playoff National Championship in January.
