Ohio State files trademark on 'THE' for clothing line

Ohio State apparently has its focus on more than just winning football games this year.

The school has filed a trademark application on the word "THE," according to Josh Gerben of Gerben Law Firm.

The filing, which was made Aug. 8, indicates the Buckeyes will be offering a brand of "THE" clothing. The university also created specimens to illustrate how the trademark will be used.

The bizarre request doesn't come without its fair share of obstacles, per Gerben. In order for a trademark to be registered for a brand of clothing, it must be used on tagging or labeling for the product. Just putting the word "THE" on a hat or shirt isn't sufficient trademark use.

Ohio State players, coaches, and fans often refer to their team as "THE" Ohio State Buckeyes, but other schools have used the word in a similar fashion. Miami, for example, is often referred to as "The U."