COLUMBUS, Ohio – Buckeye fans hoping to see talented pass-rushing defensive end Noah Spence return to the team have seen those hopes dashed.
Spence’s appeal of his suspension after failing a drug test has been denied by the Big Ten and he has been declared permanently ineligible, according to a statement released Tuesday night by Ohio State athletic director Gene Smith.
”While we are disappointed in the outcome, we are pleased that Noah has come a long way and we are very proud of the progress he has made with regard to his health. The Department of Athletics will continue to assist Noah through his pursuits and provide the academic resources necessary to help him complete his degree program,” Smith said
Smith said the university assisted Spence and his family in the appeals process.
Spence was a promising pass rusher out of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania’s Bishop McDevitt High School who played in 11 games as a freshman and started 13 games last season, earning All-Big Ten mention. He was second in the conference with eight sacks and 14 1/2 tackles for loss.
But he had not played since the Big Ten title game a year ago.