COLUMBUS, Ohio, Aug. 21 (UPI) -- Days before its season-opening contest, the football team at Ohio State University has lost four players though suspensions and junior fullback Jesse Kline has quit.
The players suspended are senior wide receiver Chris Vance, redshirt freshman tight end Redgie Arden, sophomore fullback Branden Joe and freshman defensive tackle Quinn Pitcock, and Coach Jim Tressel has told the Columbus Dispatch that the quartet "absolutely will not play this weekend."
Kline, a native of Upper Arlington, Ohio, was supposed to make his first career start Saturday, when OSU hosts Texas Tech in the Pigskin Classic. He was set to team with freshman tailback Maurice Clarett to form the Buckeyes' starting backfield.
Kline has been bothered by a number of injuries throughout his career, including lower back and shoulder ailments.
"I know this was a very difficult decision for Jesse," Tressel said. "We certainly wish him the very best and hope he will continue to spend time with our players and coaches. He is still part of the Ohio State family."
Tressel also told the paper that Clarett is one of 10 first-year players who likely will play prominent roles for the team this season.
Both Joe and Arden have been convicted of driving under the influence this year, and Pitcock was cited near his hometown of Piqua with underage drinking last weekend while attending a keg party.
The paper said those close to the team have been unusually mum concerning Vance's predicament. His penalty is said to be for a minimum of two games, though Tressel would not confirm that.
