Sophomore defensive end Noah Spence (8) attempts to sack the Penn State quarterback during a game Oct. 26, 2013 at Ohio Stadium. OSU won, 63-14. Credit: Kaily Cunningham / Multimedia editor
Ohio State sophomore defensive end Noah Spence has been suspended for three games for violating a Big Ten Conference rule, according to a Wednesday OSU press release.
Spence’s suspension will start with the Discover Orange Bowl, where the No. 7 Buckeyes (12-1, 8-1) are set to take on No. 12 Clemson (10-2, 7-1) Friday at 8:30 p.m. He will also not be able to play against Navy Aug. 30 or Virginia Tech Sept. 6.
The release said that Spence’s parents did not agree with the penalty imposed to their son or the rule violation itself, but were assisted by the athletic department in appealing their son’s suspension with the Big Ten.
Spence will be able to practice with the team this spring, but cannot play until Sept. 13 against Kent State, according to the release.
The release also states that the OSU athletic department will have no further comment on the issue.
Spence led the Buckeyes in sacks with eight in the 2013 season and was named an Academic All-Big Ten honoree and an OSU Scholar-Athlete.
Spence did not immediately respond to an email requesting comment Wednesday morning.
