Ohio State University has made a significant move in its football program by firing its defensive quality control coach, Joe Lyberger, following a turbulent investigation that led to his placement on administrative leave late last year. This decision, officially communicated through a termination letter obtained by the Columbus Dispatch, stems from findings by the university’s civil rights compliance office, which concluded that Lyberger had violated the institution’s policies regarding discrimination, harassment, and sexual misconduct.
Lyberger’s suspension began on December 27, coinciding with the College Football Playoff, just days before the Buckeyes triumphed over Oregon in the Rose Bowl, ultimately claiming the national championship. It’s a stark note in what was otherwise a celebratory season for Ohio State.
The nature of the allegations against Lyberger is serious. Reportedly, he faced accusations of stalking a female staff member and even spitting into a bottle, claims that his attorney, Sam Shamansky, has labeled as “absurd.” Shamansky further asserted that the investigation found “zero evidence” to support any wrongdoing, calling the entire process “the most pathetic sham I’ve ever seen.” From his perspective, the proceedings lacked the legal rigor one would expect, raising questions about the fairness and thoroughness of the investigation.
A former player at Slippery Rock University, Lyberger joined Ryan Day’s coaching staff in 2021, focusing primarily on the linebackers. Before his tenure at Ohio State, he had a diverse coaching background in both high school football and wrestling, as well as stints as a graduate assistant at Ohio Dominican University and two seasons as a defensive assistant at Bucknell.
As the spring practices rolled on in March and April, Lyberger’s absence was palpable, and he had been unable to participate. Moving forward, it has been established that he will not be rehirable by the university and has been directed to return all university property, marking a definitive end to his time at Ohio State.
As of Wednesday morning, the university has yet to provide a comment on this situation or confirm the firing publicly, leaving a cloud of uncertainty lingering over the program as they move ahead. The implications of this decision will undoubtedly resonate throughout the team and coaching staff as they prepare for the upcoming season.
