Ending several months of reports about improper benefits to players, Ohio State University head football coach Jim Tressel has finally resigned.

School president E. Gordon Gee announced Tressel's departure in a letter to sent to Ohio State trustees Monday morning.

In the memo, Gee wrote: I write to let you know that later this morning we will be announcing the resignation of Jim Tressel as head coach of the University's football program. As you all know, I appointed a special committee to analyze and provide advice to me regarding issues attendant to our football program. In consultation with the senior leadership of the University and the senior leadership of the Board, I have been actively reviewing the matter and have accepted Coach Tressel's resignation.

My public statement will include our common understanding that throughout all we do, we are One University with one set of standards and one overarching mission. The University's enduring public purposes and its tradition of excellence continue to guide our actions.

The NCAA accused Tressel of lying to hide violations by players who traded memorabilia for cash and tattoos. The news comes two weeks after Buckeyes athletic director Gene Smith affirmed his support for the coach.

Luke Fickell will serve as interim head coach for the 2011-2012 football season. Fickell was going to take over the five games that Tressel had been suspended.

Tressel had been the head coach for 10 seasons, and had previously coached Youngstown State.

Football