Sermon began his college football career at the University of Oklahoma before transferring to Ohio State University. During his time at Oklahoma, he played for the Sooners from 2017 to 2018 and rushed for a total of 2,076 yards and 22 touchdowns. In 2020, Sermon transferred to Ohio State and had a breakout season, rushing for 870 yards and 4 touchdowns in just 7 games.