Urban Meyer officially under contract with Ohio State

Football coach Urban Meyer has signed a six-year deal with Ohio State University.

COLUMBUS — Urban Meyer is officially under contract.

More than six months after the first-year Ohio State coach agreed to terms on a six-year deal worth $4 million annually, Meyer’s contract was released to The Blade today.

The 33-page contract notably highlights a new compliance culture at OSU, including an obligation for the coach to report in writing any potential violation. In another difference from former coach Jim Tressel’s contract, Meyer would be required to pay back performance bonuses if a season was vacated in part because of his actions.

Meyer also has the opportunity to earn his standard postseason performance bonuses this fall despite the Buckeyes being ineligible for the Big Ten Championship game or a bowl. He will earn, for instance, $50,000 if OSU finishes the regular season atop the Leaders Division and $150,000 if the Buckeyes are ranked third through tenth in the final Bowl Championship Series standings. He would earn $250,000 -- the bonus reserved for Ohio State appearing in the national title game -- if OSU is first or second.

“I understand and accept the tremendous responsibility to lead one of the most prestigious programs in college football history,” Meyer said in a statement released to The Blade. “It's great to be back home in the state of Ohio. I have made it my personal duty to ensure that the football program reflects and enhances our academic mission here at Ohio State, and our program goal is to always make the Great State of Ohio proud.”