Ohio State A.D. Gene Smith leaving College Football Playoff Committee

Ohio State director of athletics Gene Smith is stepping down from the College Football Playoff committee.

The group announced Friday he will be replaced by Gary Barta, his counterpart at Iowa.

>>READ MORE: 10 Buckeyes invited to NFL Scouting Combine

Smith served on the committee that chooses football’s final four for the past two years

"Serving on this committee has been an honor," Smith said in a statement from the CFP. "Contributing to this great sport is always a privilege, and I will miss the time with my colleagues. It is imperative for me to have 100 percent focus in helping our new coach with his transition at The Ohio State University this fall.”

Ryan Day became head coach of the Buckeye football team Jan. 2 after Urban Meyer's decision to retire because of persistent headaches from a brain cyst.

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Despite winning the Big Ten championship, Ohio State missed the CFP both years Smith was on the committee

As is the case with other members who have potential conflicts of interest, he was recused when the Buckeyes’ case was discussed, and he was not able to vote for them.

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