The Associated Press

COLUMBUS — Ohio State will not have to pay for Jim Tressel’s legal team as the Buckeyes coach prepares to defend himself against NCAA charges that the knew his players received improper benefits but didn’t report it.

Athletic director Gene Smith confirmed Wednesday that Tressel is responsible for his own lawyers. Tressel, in his 11th year at Ohio State, has hired Gene Marsh, a former chairman of the NCAA’s committee on infractions, in advance of his Aug. 12 appearance before that same committee.

Chuck Smrt, a former member of the NCAA’s enforcement staff, will handle Ohio State’s side of the case.

Tressel has admitted he learned his players were trading memorabilia for cash and free tattoos from a local businessman but did not tell his superiors until confronted more than nine months later.