Troy Smith Invites Buckeyes to Join Him at World Series of Cornhole

Heisman Trophy winner and Ohio State legend Troy Smith is stepping onto a different kind of field this fall, as he joins fellow Buckeye greats and Texas Longhorn legends for the inaugural World Series of Cornhole and Legend Shootout Tournament.

The first-of-its-kind event brings together former athletes who have made their mark on the gridiron, now competing in a game of skill and camaraderie. Smith will be joined by fellow Buckeyes, while Texas will be represented by icons including Heisman winner Ricky Williams.

“This is about competition, camaraderie, and creating new spaces for athletes to connect,” said Smith. “It’s fun, it’s lighthearted, but it’s also about addressing something very real—mental health. Athletes go through challenges like anyone else, and it’s important to have healthy outlets and conversations around that.”

Supporting Youth and Mental Health

Beyond the boards, Smith continues his long-standing commitment to giving back. Through his work with the Richard Swinsey Inner City Kids and Youth Foundation, Smith supports under-served youth in Ohio and across the nation, providing resources, mentorship, and access to opportunities in sports and education.

“Mental health is just as important as physical health,” Smith explained. “If our mental health isn’t where it needs to be, the days can pile up, leading to stress, anxiety, or worse. We want to stop that cycle, provide support, and give young people tools to succeed both on and off the field.”

Buckeyes vs. Longhorns: A Rivalry Rekindled

The Ohio State vs. Texas showdown promises to be a highlight of the event. With legends like Smith, Ricky Williams, and Vince Young involved, the competition is expected to draw fans from across the country.

“We know Texas fans travel well, but we’re in the championship city,” Smith said with a smile. “I’m confident Buckeye Nation will show up strong to represent.”

Looking Ahead

As the college football season kicks off, Smith is also keeping a close eye on the next generation of stars, including quarterbacks like Arch Manning and Drew Allar, as well as future Buckeye greats.

“The Shoe can feel daunting at first,” Smith noted. “But once you embrace the atmosphere, those 100,000 fans lift you up. That’s what being a Buckeye is all about.”

Event Schedule & Locations (Tickets Available Here)

Friday, August 29, 2025 – Legends Day

• Heisman Toast
  

• 3:00–5:00 PM at The Athletic Club of Columbus
  

• A VIP gathering offering cocktails, meet‑and‑greet photo opportunities (including Heisman Trophies), and a charity auction hosted by the Cowboy Auctioneer Heath Hale.
  
  

• WSOC VIP Cornhole Tournament – Legends Shootout
  

• Begins at 6:00 PM (with practice/warm‑ups beforehand at ~6:15 PM) at The Railhouse at East Market, 212 Kelton Ave, Columbus, OH.
  

• Sweepstakes winners team up with legends like Troy Smith, Vince Young, Ricky Williams, Ted Ginn Jr., and others to compete in a lively cornhole showdown.
  

• Attendees enjoy VIP Speakeasy access, curated beverage tastings, high-energy live auctions between games led by Heath Hale.
  

Saturday, August 30, 2025 – Game Day & After-party

• VIP Tailgate Experience
  

• Starts at 8:00 AM and runs through kickoff (Ohio State vs. Texas game).
  

• Held at a private VIP location near the stadium, featuring premium food, drinks, entertainment, and athlete appearances.
  
  

• Miss Cornhole: "Show Me Your Cornhole" After-party
  

• Begins post-game at Draft Day, 1130 Dublin Rd, Columbus, OH.
  

• High-energy fan event with celebrity judges, music by OSU Football’s official DJ Corey Grand, and over 2,000 attendees.
  
  

Charitable Impact

• Proceeds benefit player-driven foundations and charities
  

• Including Troy Smith’s mental health initiatives, the Vince Young Foundation, the Ted Ginn Jr. Foundation, Ricky Williams’ programs, and select Texas-based 501(c)(3) organizations through raffles and auctions.
  

• Cowboy Auctioneer Heath Hale will spearhead live fundraising during key events to drive engagement and support for these causes.
  

In short, the World Series of Cornhole offers an unforgettable two-day experience full of competition, legends, VIP access, and meaningful philanthropy—all preceding the big Ohio State vs. Texas showdown.

Tickets are available directly from the venue, the Railhouse at East Market and online from the World Series of Cornhole.

Editorial Note: The World Series of Cornhole is not Affiliated with University of Texas, Ohio State University or Ohio State Athletics.