At least for now, Ohio State’s starting running back is a member of the football program.
Earlier today, the Columbus Dispatch reported that Carlos Hyde had been dismissed from the Buckeyes after allegedly punching a woman at a Columbus bar. In a press release, head coach Urban Meyer offered some clarity to the situation by announcing that the running back had been indefinitely suspended from all football activities.
The release added that the suspension is the first step in the process, with further punishment, up to and including a dismissal, pending the outcome of the student code of conduct and criminal investigations.
Hyde has still yet to be officially charged in the incident.
“I have a clear set of core values in place that members of this football program are constantly reminded of and are expected to honor,” Meyer said in a statement. “There are also expectations with regard to behavior. I expect our players to conduct themselves responsibly and appropriately and they will be held accountable for their actions.”
In addition to the news on Hyde, the school also acknowledged an incident involving star cornerback Bradley Roby. Over the weekend, Roby was arrested by Bloomington (Ind.) police on an assault charge. The junior was allegedly involved in a scuffle with the bouncers of a drinking establishment.
Thus far, the only punishment for Roby is being taken off the list of Buckeyes scheduled to speak at the Big Ten’s media days beginning Wednesday. As more information becomes available, the release states, Roby could face additional discipline.
But wait, there’s more...
In the same release, the school acknowledged recent legal incidents involving tight end Marcus Baugh and defensive lineman Tim Gardner. Baugh was arrested for underage possession of alcohol and possessing a fake identification. He is suspended for the season opener against Buffalo, and will lose the summer financial aid afforded student-athletes.
Gardner, on the other hand, will not be a Buckeye in 2013 after an arrest over the weekend in Columbus for obstruction official business.
“Swift, effective and fair discipline is the standard for our entire athletics program,” athletic director Gene Smith said in his statement. “I applaud Coach Meyer for his immediate actions.”