Will former Ohio State coach Jim Tressel run for U.S. Senate? He says ‘no.’

Former Ohio State Buckeyes Coach Jim Tressel is reportedly the dream U.S. Senate candidate for some Ohio Republicans, according to a Sports Illustrated story.

But Tressel, 65, spiked such speculation via Twitter today.

“Appreciate so much the kind words regarding the US Senate campaign. Such an important role. Admire what our Senators do. Ellen and I are committed to continuing our work at YSU. Much accomplished. Much to do! #YandProud #AmericanandProud 🇺🇸,” Tressel tweeted.

RELATED: Ohio Republican Senate race battle of multimillionaires

He has been president of Youngstown State University since 2014. Prior to that as coach of the Ohio State Buckeyes he coached the football team to one national championship title in 2002. The Buckeyes also had national title appearances in 2006 and 2007 during his tenure. Tressel resigned from OSU in 2011 amid a N.C.A.A. investigation.

RELATED: Tressel to enter the Hall of Fame

The Sports Illustrated story cited a Washington Examiner story that said some Ohio Republican officials want Tressel to enter the race. Tressel could not be reached for comment.

Cleveland investment banker Mike Gibbons and U.S. Rep. Jim Renacci, R-Wadsworth, are the two announced candidates in the Republican primary after Ohio Treasurer Josh Mandel dropped out earlier this month.

RELATED: Mike Gibbons says he will beat Sherrod Brown, puts $5M in Senate race

When Mandel dropped out Ohio and national Republicans immediately began trying to find someone other than Gibbons to run, including “Hillbilly Elegy” author J.D. Vance and Renacci, who was in the governor’s race until he announced today that he is switching to the U.S. Senate race.

RELATED: Ohio Congressman Jim Renacci jumps in U.S. Senate race

Gibbons said he intends to remain in the race.

The winner of the Republican primary will face U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown, D-Ohio, in the Nov. 6 General Election.

RELATED: Sen. Brown wants to use high-tech to stop fentanyl at U.S. border

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