Urban Meyer makes definitive statement about interest in return to Ohio State: 'I will always be a Buckeye'
The Ohio State Buckeyes could've gone for broke by firing head coach Ryan Day and bringing back former program czar Urban Meyer in the aftermath of the team's fourth-straight loss to Michigan. Instead of panicking, though, the Buckeyes don't seem to have that option in the cards. Amidst speculation that former ESPN host Jay Crawford […]
The Ohio State Buckeyes could've gone for broke by firing head coach Ryan Day and bringing back former program czar Urban Meyer in the aftermath of the team's fourth-straight loss to Michigan. Instead of panicking, though, the Buckeyes don't seem to have that option in the cards.
Amidst speculation that former ESPN host Jay Crawford fueled regarding Meyer's interest in returning to the sideline, Meyer issued a definitive statement on The Triple Option podcast. Take a look.
Meyer said, "It has come to my attention that there are reports speculating my return to the sidelines in Columbus. While I thoroughly enjoyed my seven seasons as the head coach at THE Ohio State University, I have no interest in coaching again. I will always be a Buckeye and have full confidence in Ryan Day, his staff, and every player that puts on the Scarlet and Gray."
Urban Meyer’s time as the head football coach at Ohio State University (2012-2018) was marked by extraordinary success and national acclaim. He took the reins of the program during a period of turmoil due to NCAA violations from the previous leadership but swiftly restored its reputation, turning the Buckeyes into regular national powerhouses.
In his debut season, Meyer guided Ohio State to an impressive 12-0 record, even though the team was barred from postseason play due to NCAA penalties. This impressive turnaround set a positive tone for his tenure.
Under Meyer, the Buckeyes were consistently ranked among the top teams in the nation, claiming three Big Ten Championships and boasting a perfect 7-0 record against their long-standing rival, Michigan. His cutting-edge offensive strategies and tireless recruiting efforts were crucial in upholding Ohio State's dominance.
Meyer's most significant achievement occurred during the 2014 season when he led Ohio State to victory in the first-ever College Football Playoff National Championship. The Buckeyes, with third-string quarterback Cardale Jones at the helm, overcame Alabama in the semifinals and triumphed over Oregon in the championship game, solidifying Meyer’s status as one of college football's all-time great coaches.
Nonetheless, Meyer's tenure at Ohio State was not without its share of controversies. In 2018, he faced scrutiny over allegations of mishandling domestic violence claims involving a staff member, which resulted in a three-game suspension. Later that year, Meyer cited health concerns when he announced his retirement after a win in the Rose Bowl.
Meyer concluded his Ohio State career with an overall record of 82-9, earning his place in Buckeye history as one of the program's most successful and influential coaches.
