Dec. 20, 2004
SportsLine.com wire reports

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Ohio State quarterback Troy Smith was suspended on Monday for violating team and NCAA rules and will not play in next week's Alamo Bowl against Oklahoma State.

Advertisement


Coach Jim Tressel would not say what Smith did or when the violation occurred.

"Obviously, he feels terrible that he didn't take care of his responsibilities," Tressel said.

Smith led the Buckeyes to a 4-1 record in their final five regular season games, including a 37-21 victory over rival Michigan last month when he threw for 241 yards and ran for 145 yards.

"I am aware of what is expected, both on and off the field, at Ohio State and I have fallen short of those expectations," Smith said in a statement released by Ohio State.

The sophomore will not travel with the team to San Antonio when it leaves on Wednesday for the Dec. 29 game.

Justin Zwick, also a sophomore, will start for Smith. He had been the starter until he lost the job after mildly separating his left, or non-throwing, shoulder in the sixth game of the season against Iowa.

Overall, Smith played in eight of Ohio State's 11 games this year, completing 68 of 122 passes for 896 yards and eight touchdowns. He was intercepted three times.

He also ran 82 times for 339 yards and two touchdowns.

Athletic director Andy Geiger said the university has petitioned the NCAA to have Smith reinstated for the 2005 season.

AP NEWS
The Associated Press News Service

Copyright 2004, The Associated Press, All Rights Reserved