The Ohio State Buckeyes have had much to rejoice about in the past week since defeating Notre Dame 34-23 in the College Football Playoff National Championship. Since that time, the Buckeyes have apparently received confirmation that both standout receivers Jeremiah Smith and Carnell Tate will be back in Columbus next season despite attractive NIL offers to enter the transfer portal, and it seems a new profitable, long-term contract extension is being planned for head coach Ryan Day. Nonetheless, not all is easy for Ohio State. As reported by Joey Kaufmann of the Columbus Dispatch, defensive quality control coach Joe Lyberger has been put on paid administrative leave during an investigation by the school’s Office of Institutional Equity.
Kaufman stated, “Lyberger was put on administrative leave last month during an investigation by the university office that addresses harassment, discrimination, and sexual misconduct complaints.” “On Dec. 27, a letter from human resources to Lyberger stated that his leave would start immediately and was awaiting the investigation by the Office of Institutional Equity.” Lyberger, mainly focusing on OSU’s linebackers, is in his fourth year at Ohio State. While the specifics of the allegations against Lyberger remain unclear, his lawyer issued a statement indicating that they regard the claims seriously and welcome the chance to mount a defense.
During his leave, Lyberger is prohibited from entering Ohio State’s athletic facilities. The investigation into Lyberger is merely the latest setback for the Buckeyes’ defense. The team recently lost defensive coordinator Jim Knowles to Big Ten competitor Penn State, and OSU will also be missing several important players for the upcoming season. Defensive ends Jack Sawyer and JT Tuimoloau, defensive tackles Tyleik Williams and Ty Hamilton, cornerback Denzel Burke, safeties Lathan Ransom, Sonny Styles, Jordan Hancock, and linebacker Cody Simon are all leaving for the 2025 NFL draft, while several players like defensive lineman Hero Kanu, defensive end Mitchell Melton, cornerback Calvin Simpson-Hunt, safety Jayden Bonsu, and linebacker Gabe Powers have entered the transfer portal.
Despite the recent exits, Day seems to have a strategy for assembling next year’s defensive lineup. “Let’s gather this next set of individuals and work it out since they deserve a chance for their efforts,” Day stated. “This coaching team has performed an incredible task.” Many individuals in various roles merit promotions or other opportunities they receive.
