The Ohio State Buckeyes will continue towards the 2024 season without a key member of their coaching staff.

Long-time running backs coach Tony Alford announced he would be leaving the Buckeyes after nine years of service. Alford will take a similar position with Ohio State’s rivals: the Michigan Wolverines.

“The last nine years have been nothing short of amazing and there are so many people to thank and acknowledge,” Alford said.

First on Alford’s list was the duo who brought him into the program: former head coach Urban Meyer and outgoing athletic director Gene Smith. Current helmsman Ryan Day was also mentioned.

“I want to specifically thank Urban Meyer and Gene Smith for giving me the opportunity to come here back in February 2015,” Alford said. “I want to thank Ryan Day and the numerous members of the coaching staff and support staff within the (Woody Hayes Athletic Center). So many lifelong friendships have been formed and I am appreciative of you all.”

Alford went on to thank a few people unrelated to the Ohio State football program, including Morgan Drake (owner of Drake Dance Academy), Bob Gecewich (head coach at Perry High School) and Brett Glass (head coach at Dublin Jerome High School). Those three individuals served as influential figures to Alford’s three children over his time working for the Buckeyes.