Urban Meyer Placed On Administrative Leave

COLUMBUS, OH — Urban Meyer has been placed on administrative leave while The Ohio State University investigates what the coach knew about allegations that Zach Smith, one of Meyer's assistant coaches, abused his partner.

The university has confirmed that it is looking into the allegations, according to CNN. For his part, Meyer has said his presence would be a distraction during the football team's training camp and agrees with the decision to go on leave.

Ryan Day, Ohio State's offensive coordinator, will take over head coaching duties in Meyer's absence. Ohio State football opens practice on Friday.

Smith was fired after accusations emerged that he abused his wife, Courtney Smith. Meyer has denied knowledge of these incidents.

Knowledge of the possible abuse may have been wide spread among the Ohio State football community, according to Yahoo. Text message evidence indicates that Courtney Smith messaged several high-ranking members of the coaching staff and football administration about her allegations.

Meyer has also been removed from the breakfast chain Bob Evans' website, mere days after he landed an endorsement deal with the chain, Columbus Business First reported.

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