Jim Tressel Claims OSU Knew About Tattoo-Gate Earlier Than Admitted

And the saga continues.

According to WBNS-TV, former Ohio State coach Jim Tressel stated that he informed the university about possible violations in December 16, 2010, a month earlier than the date athletic director Gene Smith claimed in the investigation.

In a formal statement months earlier, Smith said that Ohio State was not notified of such misgivings until January 13, 2011. 

Apparently, Tressel verbally broached the possible violations to a variety of people, including NCAA compliance director Doug Archie. This meeting happened as a result of the U.S. Department of Justice sending a letter notifying the school about the rumors of players exchanging memorabilia for discounted goods and services. 

Apparently, Tressel informed Archie that a former player—implying Columbus lawyer Chris Cicero—had made the tip about players "social choices off field."

When asked Thursday about Tressel's newfound claims, the university denied that Tressel ever made contact about the scandal last winter, still claiming that it had no knowledge until January. 

Tressel announced his resignation on Memorial Day amidst a NCAA scandal that began with players exchanging memorabilia for discounted tattoos. Days later, star quarterback Terrelle Pryor also left the Buckeyes.