Embattled coach Urban Meyer attempted to clarify the reasoning behind his three-game suspension for his role in the Zach Smith scandal Thursday.
In a statement, Meyer said his ban wasn't for failing to report the domestic abuse claims levied against Smith in 2015 by his estranged wife, Courtney, as some outlets have reported.
Smith was fired July 23 after past domestic incidents involving him were brought to light by the media. He had served as the Buckeyes' receivers coach since 2012. He was also on Meyer's staff at Florida in 2009 when he was arrested for domestic violence.
Meyer added in his statement that the investigative unit hired to examine his handling of the claims against Smith determined he didn't intentionally lie to reporters about his knowledge of the incidents at Big Ten Media Days.
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Meyer said he is at fault for "not taking action sooner against a troubled employee about his work-related issues."
The decorated football coach cited the investigative report to back up each of his points:
— Urban Meyer (@OSUCoachMeyer) August 31, 2018
