OSU Defensive Coach Joe Lyberger on Leave as Probe Continues

OSU Defensive Coach Joe Lyberger on Leave as Probe Continues \ Newslooks \ Washington DC \ Mary Sidiqi \ Evening Edition \ Ohio State defensive quality control coach Joe Lyberger has been on paid administrative leave since Dec. 27 while the university conducts an ongoing investigation through its Office of Institutional Equity. The nature of the probe remains undisclosed, though the office typically handles cases involving harassment, discrimination, and misconduct. Lyberger’s attorney, Sam Shamansky, has strongly criticized the investigation process, calling it unfair and opaque. Lyberger has been with Ohio State’s football staff for four seasons, following stints at Bucknell and Ohio Dominican.

Ohio State’s Investigation of Joe Lyberger: Quick Looks

• Paid Leave Since December: Lyberger was placed on administrative leave on Dec. 27, as per a letter from Ohio State’s human resources department.
• University Probe Underway: The investigation is being led by the Office of Institutional Equity, which typically handles harassment, discrimination, and misconduct cases.
• No Public Details Given: The nature of the investigation has not been disclosed in official documents.
• Attorney Blasts OSU’s Process: Lyberger’s lawyer, Sam Shamansky, called the investigation process unjust, stating that the accused lack meaningful legal representation.
• Uncertain Timeline: Shamansky said Ohio State has not indicated when the investigation will conclude.
• Lyberger’s Coaching Background: He has been with Ohio State for four seasons, previously working at Bucknell and Ohio Dominican.

Deep Look

Ohio State defensive quality control coach Joe Lyberger has been placed on paid administrative leave as the university investigates him for undisclosed reasons. The investigation is being conducted by the Office of Institutional Equity (OIE), which handles cases related to harassment, discrimination, and sexual misconduct. However, Ohio State has not specified the nature of the allegations against Lyberger, leaving his coaching future uncertain.

According to a letter from Ohio State’s human resources department, Lyberger was notified on December 27, 2023, that he was being placed on leave effective immediately. The letter was obtained by the Associated Press through a public records request, while The Columbus Dispatch first reported on Lyberger’s situation.

While the university remains tight-lipped about the details, Lyberger’s attorney, Sam Shamansky, has strongly criticized Ohio State’s handling of the investigation, calling it unjust and opaque.

Attorney Slams Ohio State’s Investigation Process

Lyberger’s lawyer, Sam Shamansky, has publicly condemned Ohio State’s investigative procedures, arguing that the system places the accused at an extreme disadvantage and lacks transparency.

“He’s going through proverbial hell and back,” Shamansky said, referring to the emotional toll on Lyberger.

He accused Ohio State of designing a system that effectively strips the accused of meaningful legal representation, saying that attorneys are only allowed to act as advisors rather than active participants in the defense process.

“The university sets up a system whereby the lawyers are effectively neutered and reduced to advisers with absolutely no ability to assist in the hearing in a meaningful way. It’s an absolute travesty of justice.”

Shamansky further stated that Ohio State has not provided any details about when the investigation will conclude, leaving Lyberger in a state of uncertainty.

“The university chooses to keep people in the dark and maintain a system of pseudo-justice that puts the accused individual at an incredible disadvantage,” he said. “That is done by design because the university is regrettably interested only in itself as an institution and not in protecting the basic rights of the accused.”

According to Shamansky, Ohio State’s disciplinary system prioritizes protecting the university’s reputation over ensuring fairness for the accused, whether they be a student, coach, employee, or athlete.

“They couldn’t care less,” he added.

The strong criticism from Lyberger’s legal team highlights deep concerns about how universities handle sensitive investigations, especially in cases where due process concerns arise.

What Is Ohio State’s Office of Institutional Equity?

The Office of Institutional Equity (OIE) at Ohio State is responsible for investigating allegations of discrimination, harassment, and sexual misconduct within the university.

• The OIE operates independently of the athletic department.
• Investigations handled by the OIE can take months to conclude.
• Findings from the OIE can lead to disciplinary actions, including termination or suspension.

While the OIE’s role is crucial in maintaining university standards, it has previously faced scrutiny for its handling of cases, particularly regarding the rights of the accused.

Ohio State has not confirmed whether Lyberger’s case involves harassment, misconduct, or any other specific violation—leaving speculation about the nature of the investigation.

Who Is Joe Lyberger? Coaching Background & Career Path

Joe Lyberger has been part of Ohio State’s football coaching staff for the last four seasons, working as a defensive quality control coach.

Lyberger’s Coaching History:

• Ohio State (2020–Present) – Defensive Quality Control Coach under Ryan Day.
• Bucknell University (2018–2019) – Defensive Assistant Coach.
• Ohio Dominican University (2016–2017) – Graduate Assistant Coach.

Lyberger played college football at Slippery Rock University, where he graduated in 2016 before transitioning into coaching roles at various programs.

As a defensive quality control coach, Lyberger is not a full-time, on-field coach, but his responsibilities include game analysis, opponent scouting, and assisting defensive staff in preparations.

Impact on Ohio State Football

While Lyberger is not a high-profile coordinator, his removal creates uncertainty within Ohio State’s coaching staff.

• With recruiting and offseason planning underway, his absence could impact the defensive coaching structure.
• If the investigation leads to his dismissal, Ohio State may seek a replacement before the next season begins.

Ohio State has not indicated whether Lyberger’s leave will be extended or lead to further action.

Legal & Procedural Challenges in University Investigations

Lyberger’s case has reignited debates about fairness in university investigations, particularly when faculty, staff, or coaches face allegations with no immediate transparency.

Critics argue that Ohio State’s investigation process lacks due process protections for the accused, including:

• No clear timeframe for resolution.
• Limited ability for legal representation during hearings.
• Unspecified allegations that keep individuals in limbo while under investigation.

Shamansky’s complaints mirror concerns raised in past university investigations, where accused individuals have found it difficult to defend themselves in opaque disciplinary processes.

Ohio State has yet to respond publicly to the criticism from Lyberger’s legal team, and it remains unclear when the university will provide more details on the case.

What Happens Next?

Possible Outcomes for Lyberger:

1. Exoneration & Reinstatement – If no wrongdoing is found, Lyberger could return to his coaching role.
2. Extended Leave Pending Investigation – The university may continue its inquiry, keeping Lyberger on paid administrative leave indefinitely.
3. Termination or Resignation – If the investigation uncovers misconduct, Ohio State could choose to dismiss Lyberger or he may opt to resign.

Key Questions Moving Forward:

• How long will the investigation take? – Ohio State has not provided a timeline.
• Will the university disclose details of the investigation? – So far, OSU has kept specifics under wraps.
• How will Ohio State handle future cases like this? – The controversy over due process in university investigations is unlikely to fade.

For now, Lyberger remains in limbo, awaiting Ohio State’s decision on his future with the program.

Final Thoughts: A Case That Raises Larger Issues

While the exact nature of the allegations against Lyberger remains unknown, his case highlights broader issues regarding transparency, due process, and university disciplinary procedures.

As Ohio State continues its investigation, the lack of public information has fueled speculation about the potential impact on the football program.

Lyberger’s attorney, Sam Shamansky, has been one of the most vocal critics of Ohio State’s investigative process, and the university may face increased pressure to reform how it handles internal probes.

Whether Lyberger returns to coaching or faces disciplinary action, this case has already sparked larger debates about fairness and accountability in collegiate investigations.

For now, the college football world watches closely, waiting for Ohio State’s next move.

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