Ohio State has suspended Urban Meyer for the first three games of the 2018 season, but he will retain his job as the Buckeyes' football coach, the university announced Wednesday.
Meyer, who was under investigation by Ohio State for how he handled domestic violence allegations made against former wide receivers coach Zach Smith, will be fully suspended through Oct. 2 and the Buckeyes' first game against Oregon State. He will be allowed to coach the Buckeyes prior to their games against Rutgers and TCU, but will not be allowed to coach in those games. He will be eligible to return for their game against Tulane on Sept. 22.
Gene Smith will also serve a suspension without pay from Aug. 31 to Sept. 16.
From Ohio State's statement:
Although neither Urban Meyer nor Gene Smith condoned or covered up the alleged domestic abuse by Zach Smith, they failed to take sufficient management action relating to Zach Smith’s misconduct and retained an Assistant Coach who was not performing as an appropriate role model for OSU student-athletes. Permitting such misconduct to continue is not consistent with the values of the University and reflects poorly on Coach Meyer, Athletic Director Smith, and the University. Their handling of this matter did not exhibit the kind of leadership and high standards that we expect of our Athletic Director, Head Coach, Assistant Coaches and all on the football staff. Urban Meyer is suspended through September 2, 2018, and for the games on September 1, 8 and 15 without pay. Gene Smith is suspended without pay from August 31-September 16.
Meyer had been on paid administrative leave from Ohio State since Aug. 1.
Stay tuned with Eleven Warriors for much more coverage from Wednesday night's decision and press conference.
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