NCAAF Update: Fickell to fill in for Tressel by the Sports Network

Columbus, OH (Sports Network) – Luke Fickell, named Ohio State’s assistant head football coach Wednesday, will serve as interim head coach for the Buckeyes’ first five games of the 2011 season.

Fickell will still be linebackers coach and co-defensive coordinator for the Buckeyes. The announcement formalizes his new role, which will put him in Jim Tressel’s place at the start of next season.

Tressel was originally suspended two games for failing to notify the school that he knew some of his players were selling items and memorabilia months before the school learned of the potential violations. But Ohio State announced the extended ban earlier this month.

“Luke Fickell is a Buckeye to the core. He has earned this promotion to assistant head coach through his hard work, dedication and performance,” said Ohio State athletics director Gene Smith. “We have great trust and belief in Luke’s ability to work with our entire coaching staff to lead our young men through the first five games this fall. I have confidence our entire football family will work together to maintain our standard of excellence.”

Fickell is in his 10th year on the team’s staff. He was a four-year starter at nose guard for the Buckeyes from 1992-96, and graduated in 1997.

 You can get all your FREE NCAAF news, upates, and articles right here at www.aasiwins.com.