Earlier today, a report from Brett McMurphy (via a long Facebook post) surfaced with new information regarding Urban Meyer's knowledge of former wide receivers coach Zach Smith's allegations of domestic violence back in 2015. The new report uncovers pictures, text messages between the victim and Urban's wife, Shelley, and brings to light some serious questions about what Urban knew, and what he may have been lying about.
At Big Ten Media Days, which happened to take place just as the original story was really picking up steam, Meyer said that he was aware of the allegations against his assistant back in 2009, and dealt with them accordingly then, but said that there "was nothing to" the allegations from 2015, adding "I don’t know who creates a story like that."
As the day wore on, and conversations and speculation about Meyer's involvement picked up, it became clear that it was only a matter of time before Ohio State needed to address the situation publicly.
Now they have.
Meyer was placed on administrative leave on Wednesday evening. The announcement was made through a joint statement from the school and Meyer himself. Ryan Day has been appointed acting head coach.
Meyer received a contract extension earlier this year, but said extension
With Urban Meyer on administrative leave, it’s worth noting that these sections were added to his most recent contract extension that was signed in April: pic.twitter.com/c8JNVCCj1V
— Bryan Fischer (@BryanDFischer) August 1, 2018
" target="_blank" rel="noopener">included new language that could factor heavily into Ohio State's investigation.
Since 2012, Urban has led the Buckeyes to a mark of 73-8, including a 47-3 mark in Big Ten play, six straight finishes atop their division, two Big Ten titles, and a national title in 2014. Overall, Meyer is 177-31 with three national championships, six conference championships and nine AP top-10 finishes in 15 seasons as a head coach.
Stay tuned to The Scoop as more on this situation continues to develop.