Jim Tressel, the coach who led Ohio State to the 2002 national championship, has been appointed as Ohio’s new lieutenant governor. Governor Mike DeWine announced the decision on Monday, selecting Tressel to replace Jon Husted, who is moving into the U.S. Senate to take over for Vice President J.D. Vance.
DeWine emphasized that his top priority was choosing someone capable of stepping in as governor if necessary. “The most important thing is selecting someone who could serve as governor if needed over the next 100 weeks,” he said. “Second, I wanted someone who could truly contribute. Most importantly, I wanted someone who knows Ohio.”
Tressel, 72, had an impressive coaching career, going 106-22 at Ohio State—including a dominant 9-1record against Michigan—though his official record was later adjusted to 94-21 following an NCAA investigation into improper benefits during the 2010 season. Under his leadership, Ohio State made BCS Championship appearances in 2006 and 2007. Before coaching the Buckeyes, Tressel guided Youngstown State to four Division I-AA national titles in 15 years. After stepping away from coaching, he served as Youngstown State University’s president from 2014 to 2023.
Tressel’s appointment now awaits confirmation by the Ohio State Senate.
