Former Ohio State Coach Urban Meyer Admits Longstanding Grudge Against Sports Illustrated Over 2011 Scandal

Urban Meyer continues to hold a grudge against Sports Illustrated over its 2011 investigation that exposed the Ohio State football program's memorabilia-for-tattoos scandal involving then-coach Jim Tressel. The report detailed that over 28 players, including star quarterback Terrelle Pryor, traded memorabilia for tattoos or money, which led to Tressel's resignation and significant NCAA penalties for the Buckeyes, including a postseason ban in 2012. Meyer, who took over as head coach after Tressel, criticized the harshness of the NCAA's sanctions, arguing there was no competitive advantage gained from the violations. He also expressed frustration with the national media's portrayal of Tressel and the Ohio State program, calling it unfair and a joke. Despite acknowledging the wrongdoing, Meyer believes the backlash and punishment were excessive and remains resentful toward Sports Illustrated for its role in the scandal’s fallout. The controversy underscored tensions around NCAA enforcement in the pre-NIL era and has left a lasting impact on Meyer’s view of media and college football governance.