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Jay Paterno: Ohio State shouldn’t rush to judgement on Urban Meyer’s future
By Andrew Olson
Published:
Like many coaches, Urban Meyer has described himself as an admirer of the late Joe Paterno. At a time Meyer is embattled by scandal, however, Paterno might be the last surname he wants to be associated with.
That didn’t stop Joe Paterno’s son Jay Paterno from calling on Ohio State to “stand up to mob mentality” when it comes to making a decision Meyer’s future. In a lengthy post on his website titled “Due Process & Rule of Law for Urban Meyer,” Paterno states his belief that because allegations are not the same as established facts and that Meyer has not committed a crime, he should not lose his head coaching job at OSU.
No matter what is proven about these allegations against the former wide receiver coach at Ohio State, this much is beyond doubt: Urban Meyer did not commit a crime, he did not witness, nor did he cover up any crimes. He hasn’t even been accused of one but yet there will be voices unjustly calling for his job.
Though Meyer did not break the law, some point to Title IX policy as reason he may be terminated for cause at Ohio State. The details and images provided by Courtney Smith also make it difficult for many to dismiss the domestic violence accusations as simply “allegations.”
While Paterno’s post is unlikely to sway public opinion or OSU’s opinion, it is one endorsement of Meyer that will get a few reads, especially in the Big Ten community, because of the last name.
A former Florida beat reporter, Andrew writes for the Saturday Tradition News Desk.