Shortly after the Pac-12 announced it was parting ways with commissioner Larry Scott, some started to connect Ohio State athletic director Gene Smith as a potential replacement.

Smith is a former Pac-12 AD, serving in that role for Arizona State before making the jump to Ohio State in 2005.

But according to The Columbus Dispatch, Smith has not been contacted about the opening.

Sports Betting in Big Ten Country

With the launch coming on January 1, 2023, Ohio sports betting apps are almost here. Pre-registration is now available at FanDuel Ohio for an extra $100 bonus. Learn more. Check out some of the best promotions available for bettors in Ohio.

21+ and present in OH. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.

“Honored to be mentioned,” Smith wrote in a text message to The Dispatch’s Joey Kaufman, “but I have not been contacted by anyone.”

Smith called the reports of his name being tied to the opening, “pure speculation.”

Smith has received praise for how he helped lead OSU and the Big Ten at large through football season despite the pandemic.

The Pac-12 has struggled both on the field and off in recent years. The conference hasn’t sent a team to the College Football Playoff since 2016 and have fallen well behind the other Power 5 conferences in terms of revenue.

The Pac-12 is currently undergoing a national search to find its next commissioner.