fbpx
68.2 F
Los Angeles

Urban Meyer apologizes for mishandling questions about ex-coach

Date:

Share:

Subscribe to our Insider

The intensity surrounding Urban Meyer continues to increase. Today he made a statement admitting he handled the debacle with former assistant Zach Smith in the wrong manner. In fact, Meyer said he “failed” when it came to his knowledge of Smith’s domestic abuse back in 2015.

“The power of what I say and how I say it, especially regarding sensitive and serious domestic issues, has never been more evident than now,” Meyer said via a statement. “My words, whether in a reply to a reporter’s question or in addressing a personnel issue, must be clear, compassionate and, most of all, completely accurate. Unfortunately, at Big Ten Media Days on July 24, I failed on many of these fronts. My intention was not to say anything inaccurate or misleading. However, I was not adequately prepared to discuss these sensitive personnel issues with the media, and I apologize for the way I handled those questions.”

Via Twitter, Meyer also addressed how he follows protocol when it comes to reporting specific incidents:

“Here is the truth: While at the University of Florida, and now at The Ohio State University, I have always followed proper reporting protocols and procedures when I have learned of an incident involving a student-athlete, coach or member of our staff by elevating the issues to the proper channels. And, I do so regarding the Zach Smith incident in 2015. I take that responsibility very seriously and any suggestion to the contrary is simply false.”

Update

In a recent interview, Zach Smith denied abusing his wife. But, college football insider, Brett McMurphy, has provided proof of Smith apologizing to his wife via text message for abusing her.

Backstory

A couple of weeks ago, Meyer stated he did not know of Smith’s domestic violence in 2015. However, it was reported he was aware of the abuse toward his wife, Courtney Smith.

On July 23, Smith was fired as an assistant coach at Ohio State. Smith being fired came days after his wife filed a domestic violence protection order against him. It was the next day, July 24, at Media Day, when Meyer answered he didn’t know about the 2015 incident.

With reports contradicting Meyer’s statement, Ohio State University officials decided to open an investigation. While the investigation is ongoing, Meyer has been placed on paid administrative leave.

The next day after being placed on leave, Meyer temporiarly loss an endorsement deal. Before this incident, Meyer was set to be a representative of Bob Evans Restaurant with posters and commercials. However, the restaurant chain announced it would be suspending its deal with him until further notice.

Rene' Kennedy
Rene' Kennedyhttps://theballout.com
Managing Editor of The Ball Out.

Subscribe to our Insider

━ more like this

Unveiling the Most Surprising Omissions, Slights from the 2024 NCAA Tournament (Men’s and Women’s)

As the dust settles on another riveting Selection Sunday, the basketball world finds itself grappling with a slew of unexpected snubs from both the...

Candid Confessions and New Romances: The ‘Love is Blind Reunion’ Recap

The anticipation was palpable as fans worldwide tuned in to watch the 'Love is Blind' reunion last night. The reality TV phenomenon that has...

Biden’s Fiery State of the Union Address: Confronting Challenges and Charting a Course for the Future

In a fiery and energetic delivery, President Joe Biden took to the podium for his State of the Union address. His speech was not...

Iowa Superstar Caitlin Clark to Enter WNBA: A Big Deal

Iowa superstar Caitlin Clark has officially declared for the 2024 WNBA draft. This electrifying turn of events has seen the Indiana Fever accomplish what...

Breaking News: Comedian Richard Lewis, Curb Your Enthusiasm Star Dies at 76

The entertainment world is in mourning as news breaks oof Richard Lewis, the revered comedian and Curb Your Enthusiasm star. Known for his acerbic...