Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has tapped former Ohio State football coach Jim Tressel as his nominee for lieutenant governor, citing his leadership and deep ties to the state.
Tressel, 72, led the Buckeyes to a national championship in 2002 and later served as president of Youngstown State University until his retirement in 2023. His coaching tenure in Columbus from 2001 to 2010 ended in controversy when he resigned amid an NCAA investigation into player benefits—an issue that seems minor by today’s Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) standards.
A Surprise Nomination
The former coach admitted he was caught off guard when DeWine approached him about the position just nine days before the announcement. “I thought he was just coming to watch a couple grandkids play basketball,” Tressel joked.
DeWine, however, was serious about the appointment. “Jim Tressel has the leadership skills, experience, and vision Ohio needs,” the governor said in a press conference. “He knows this state, and I trust his judgment.”
Next Steps in the Process
Tressel’s appointment must be confirmed by the Ohio Senate and House before he can officially take office. He was selected to fill the vacancy left by Jon Husted, who moved into the U.S. Senate seat formerly held by now-Vice President JD Vance. If approved, Tressel will serve the remaining two years of the lieutenant governor’s term.
“I want someone who brings fresh ideas and real leadership,” DeWine added. “Jim has spent his career inspiring people and building strong teams. That’s exactly what we need in government.”
A Storied Career in Ohio
Despite the circumstances of his departure, Tressel remains a revered figure in Ohio football. He was inducted into the Ohio State Athletics Hall of Fame in 2015 and left Columbus with a remarkable 94–21 coaching record. Before his time at OSU, he led Youngstown State to four FCS National Championships over 15 seasons.
Now, his legacy could extend beyond the gridiron into public service. If confirmed, Tressel will take on a new challenge—helping shape the future of Ohio from the statehouse instead of the sidelines.
