Ohio State to Respond to Report of Tressel Allegations by The Sports Network

Columbus, OH (Sports Network) – Ohio State has scheduled a press conference for Tuesday evening to discuss allegations that head football coach Jim Tressel knew some of his players were selling items and memorabilia months before the school learned of the potential violations.

Last December, quarterback Terrelle Pryor, running back Dan Herron, receiver DeVier Posey, offensive lineman Mike Adams and defensive lineman Solomon Thomas were suspended for the first five games of the 2011 season for receiving improper benefits. The five were accused of selling awards, gifts and university apparel.

Despite the violations, the controversial ruling from the NCAA allowed Pryor and the four others to play in the January 4 Sugar Bowl against Arkansas. Another player, linebacker Jordan Whiting, was suspended one game for a lesser infraction.

The university said it first learned of the allegations on December 7 through the U.S. Attorney’s office, but Yahoo! Sports has reported that Tressel was informed of the situation back in April.

If Tressel knew of the allegations eight months prior and didn’t act on the information, he could face sanctions from the NCAA. The school could also terminate his contract for failing to report potential violations.

The Yahoo! Sports story did not indicate if Tressel acted after allegedly learning of the accusations.

Tressel has been Ohio State’s head coach since 2001. He guided the Buckeyes to a national championship in 2002 and owns a record of 106-22, including a 12-1 mark this past season. Ohio State has won or shared seven Big Ten titles under Tressel.