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12/16/05
12/16/05
OSU FOOTBALL
Smith wants to extend Tressel’s contract in February
Friday, December 16, 2005
Ken Gordon
THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH
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It appears that Ohio State football coach Jim Tressel will be given a contract extension, probably in February.
Athletics director Gene Smith said yesterday that he intends to discuss an extension with Tressel as soon as the recruiting period ends with signing day (Feb. 1).
"I’m a huge believer in stability," Smith said, "and when you have good teachers and people with the right integrity like Jim. . . . (you) give them security and let them know they’re wanted."
Tressel’s original contract in 2001 was for five years. After winning the national championship, Tressel signed a new deal in June 2003 that extended through the 2008 season.
That deal included a provision for a three-year extension, provided it was agreed upon by March 1, 2006. The extension would run through the 2011 season.
Smith said he has no intention of letting the March 1 deadline pass.
"Whenever those windows (for extensions) pop open, I’m one that I’ll go to them," Smith said. "I think it’s the best thing to do."
Smith said he first had to talk with Tressel about the coach’s long-term goals because an extension "has got to be mutual."
But Tressel certainly sounds as if he wants to remain here. Asked whether he envisioned signing an extension, he said, "I would hope so."
Tressel is 49-13 at OSU, with two co-Big Ten titles, a national title and five bowl appearances.
"If he wants to be here, we want him here," Smith said.
Tressel’s current deal paid him about $1.3 million in the first year, escalating to $1.87 million in 2008. If he stayed for the duration of the deal, he would get another $1.5 million in deferred compensation.
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