"I have the utmost respect for Notre Dame and great admiration for the university and its athletics department, but I will not be a candidate for the job there," Smith said in a statement. "I am very happy being at The Ohio State University and am excited about its new leadership of the university. I am thrilled with the direction we are going in the department and am pleased and thankful for the support of President Gee and the administration."

Smith took over the Ohio State post in March 2005 and has led the completely self-funded program that is one of the largest and most successful in college athletics. With an annual budget of nearly $110 million, the Buckeyes have 36 fully-funded varsity sports and more than 900 student-athletes.

"I have not been contacted by Notre Dame," Smith said. "I am honored that many consider me to be a candidate, but I have no desire to leave Ohio State."

Smith is a 1977 Notre Dame graduate, where he played football and was a member of the 1973 national championship team. He then served as an assistant football coach at Notre Dame until 1981, helping the Irish to another national title in 1977.

Stay with 10TV News and 10TV.com for additional information.

©2008 by 10TV.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.