The Ohio State Buckeyes are still celebrating their 34-23 victory over Notre Dame in the College Football Playoff National Championship, but their off-season has taken an unexpected turn.
While securing commitments from star receivers Jeremiah Smith and Carnell Tate for next season and working on a long-term contract extension for head coach Ryan Day, the program is now dealing with a coaching controversy.
According to Joey Kaufman of the Columbus Dispatch, Joe Lyberger, a defensive quality control coach, has been placed on paid administrative leave while being investigated by the university’s Office of Institutional Equity.
Investigation Puts Ohio State Assistant on Leave
The Office of Institutional Equity, which handles cases related to harassment, discrimination, and sexual misconduct, launched an investigation into Lyberger late last year. He was placed on leave effective December 27, per a letter from Ohio State’s Human Resources Department.
“Lyberger [was placed] on administrative leave last month amid an investigation by the university office that handles complaints of harassment, discrimination, and sexual misconduct,” Kaufman reported.
While the details of the allegations remain unclear, Lyberger‘s attorney released a statement affirming that they are taking the matter seriously and are prepared to defend against the claims. Until the investigation is concluded, Lyberger is barred from Ohio State’s athletic facilities.
The situation is an added challenge for Ohio State’s defense, which has already undergone major changes. Defensive coordinator Jim Knowles recently departed for Penn State, and the team is experiencing a significant player exodus.
Defensive Overhaul for Ohio State
Several key defensive players are leaving for the 2025 NFL Draft, including Jack Sawyer, JT Tuimoloau, Tyleik Williams, Ty Hamilton, Denzel Burke, Lathan Ransom, Sonny Styles, Jordan Hancock, and Cody Simon. Additionally, multiple players have entered the transfer portal, such as Hero Kanu, Mitchell Melton, Calvin Simpson-Hunt, Jayden Bonsu, and Gabe Powers.
Despite these losses, Ryan Day remains confident in rebuilding the defense and ensuring the Buckeyes remain competitive.
“We’ll put this next group of guys together and figure it out because these guys deserve opportunity for what they’ve done,” Day said. “This coaching staff has done an unbelievable job. There’s a lot of guys in different positions, and whether it’s promotions or whatever it might be, they deserve those things.”
As Ohio State navigates this period of transition, the focus will be on how they manage coaching changes, roster adjustments, and the ongoing investigation into Joe Lyberger. With their sights set on another title run, the Buckeyes will look to overcome adversity and maintain their championship-caliber form heading into the next season.
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