Court Case Provides Opening for Counterfeit Jerseys

Your kid wants an Ohio State University (OSU) football jersey for Christmas, specifically a replica of one worn by All-American defensive end Joey Bosa. One problem: OSU does not sell that jersey.

Option B: Purchase a knockoff Bosa “97” jersey from an online outlet, likely based in China. But that apparel is counterfeit and not officially licensed by the university.

Technically, you could be breaking the law, said Rick Van Brimmer, director of trademark and licensing services at OSU.

“I want to believe that people don’t know they’re participating in the distribution of counterfeit goods, but every time they order one, they are participating in it, and it is a crime,” Van Brimmer said.