Ohio State University football fans will gather at the Ohio Stadium on Monday evening to protest the school's investigation into head coach Urban Meyer.
Meyer is on a paid leave of absence as Ohio State investigates his contradicting statements on how he handled claims that now-fired assistant coach Zach Smith committed domestic violence against his then-wife. The school announced Sunday night that the investigation is expected to wrap up within two weeks.
Buckeyes fan Jeff Hams, known as "Tennessee Jeff," announced on Facebook that he would hold a rally Monday at 6 p.m. outside the Ohio Stadium's North Rotunda
According to Hamms' post, the purpose of the event is "to show our positive support for Ohio State Football players, coaches, Urban Meyer and their families."
The agenda includes a statement of opening purpose and prayer, Ohio State cheers, Urban's story, and an open microphone time for fans. He requested that fans "bring signs and make them tasteful, to reflect the first-class organization of The Ohio State University and our football program."
Two weeks ago, Meyer told reporters that he had no previous knowledge of the 2015 incident involving Smith and his wife at the time, Courtney Smith. Zach Smith was arrested, but charges were later dropped.
Last week, independent journalist Brett McMurphy published text messages and pictures showing Courtney Smith told Meyer's wife, Shelley Meyer, about the abuse in 2015. Meyer on Friday admitted that he knew about the incident but followed "proper reporting protocols" in reporting it.
