During the Big Ten's spring meetings on Wednesday, Ohio State athletic director Gene Smith announced that embattled football coach Jim Tressel will need to pay the legal fees for his representation during the NCAA's investigation into his knowledge of illegal activities involving his players.
The university will have a lawyer from the NCAA present their case during the infraction committees hearing on Aug. 12. Ohio State has its own issues with the cost of this investigation, and Smith has called the entire thing "a nightmare." However, Smith still supports his coach, though he did not speak any further on the issues since the investigation is ongoing.
At the very least, Tressel will miss the first five games of the season due to suspension, serving it alongside the players who received improper benefits. The NCAA infractions committee could ultimately impose a harsher punishment.
For more on the Tressel investigation and the Ohio St. Buckeyes, visit Along the Olentangy.