Ohio State Athletic Director Gene Smith suspended for three weeks amid Zach Smith scandal

Ohio State athletic director Gene Smith will join Urban Meyer on the sideline for the next three weeks.

Smith is suspended without pay from August 31-September 16.

The Buckeyes announced the suspension of both men on Wednesday night, both held accountable for not doing “more” when they learned of domestic violence allegations against former wide receivers coach Zach Smith in 2015 and more about disturbing behavior from Smith over the years.

A press release from Ohio State states the following:

“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.”

Smith has been Ohio State Athletic Director since 2005.