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COLUMBUS, Ohio (WTVN) -- Ohio State football coach Urban Meyer has been placed on administrative leave while the university investigates how much he knew about domestic violence allegations against one of his assistants.
Key to the investigation is the timeline of the allegations around former wide receivers coach Zach Smith.
Last week, Meyer denied knowledge of reports concerning Smith's actions in 2015.
Recent text messages made public between Smith's ex-wife and Meyer's wife have cast doubt on the coach's denial.
REACTION:
Ohio State University:
"The university is conducting an investigation into these allegations. During the inquiry, Urban Meyer will be on paid administrative leave. Ryan Day will serve as acting head football coach during the investigation. We are focused on supporting our players and on getting to the truth as expeditiously as possible."
Urban Meyer:
"Gene (Athletic Director Gene Smith) and I agree that being on leave during this inquiry will facilitate its completion. This allows the team to conduct training camp with minimal distraction. I eagerly look forward to the resolution of this matter."
Bradley Koffel-attorney for Zach Smith (through ESPN)
"Zach Smith wants to be as transparent and honest as possible, but it is not going to be done today through the media. It will only be after he and his ex-wife are sworn in to testify. Once he gets his chance to tell his side of events, don't be surprised when it is corroborated by every police who ever responded to Ms. Smith's calls."