Ohio State's Noah Spence ruled permanently ineligible

There had been some internet buzz this week that suspended Ohio State defensive end Noah Spence might be able to see the field again this season, if not next year. Tonight, Ohio State athletic director Gene Smith released a statement saying that Spence has been ruled permanently ineligible by the Big Ten.

The full statement:

Ohio State junior student-athlete Noah Spence has been declared permanently ineligible from all intercollegiate athletics competition by the Big Ten Conference. The Ohio State University Department of Athletics had assisted Noah and his family leading up to an appeals process that took place today.

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.

Spence had been suspended due to multiple failed drug tests. We wish him the best moving forward.