Organized as the Walk to UA for Tressel as a way of showing support in the wake of his stunning resignation, students and fans met at 6pm at a nearby park and walked a half mile to Tressel's home before serenading the coach with their blatant disregard for the well being of our neighbors to the north.

UPPER ARLINGTON, OHIO - In a show of support, more than 200 students and fans marched to the home of former Ohio State football coach Jim Tressel.

In 1987, when Earle Bruce was fired before the Michigan game, the Ohio State marching band staged a similar event at Bruce's home. A visibly moved Bruce came outside to join the rally.

Tressel showed no tears Saturday night but instead spoke of his love for the Buckeyes.

''We're going to be Buckeyes for life,'' Tressel said, referring to himself and his wife. ''What's that old saying? Buckeye born and bred, a Buckeye 'til I'm dead.''

A Facebook page created by Tawni Shaffer and Andy Haviland titled "Walk To UA for Tressel" helped attract fans to the short walk.

"I created the walk in order to show Coach Tressel how much he meant to our football program and Buckeye Nation," said Shaffer. "Jim Tressel made a large impact on the university, and we wanted to recognize it in a manner that he could actually see. Jim Tressel has been the only coach that many students and fans of my generation recognize."

Coach Tressel was home for the event and came outside to thank Buckeye fans. He and his wife, Ellen, stayed outside to meet his fans and pose for photos with everyone in attendance.

But his best quote of the night is why Ohio State fans still love him.

"Don't forget, on November 26th, we're going to kick their (butts)," Tressel said of rival Michigan.

Tressel has been under fire since it was learned that six of his players traded memorabilia for tattoos over the past two years. His knowledge of the transactions led first to a five-game suspension in the upcoming season, and he has since tendered his resignation.

Tressel will face the NCAA Infractions Committee in August.

Little Danny;791926 wrote:I am actually shocked at the statement. In the past, Tress would have said something along the lines of "Come Nov 26th we will make you proud" or something along those lines. Have a feeling this blurb is already hanging up in the locker room up in Ann Arbor.

Little Danny;791926 wrote: Have a feeling this blurb is already hanging up in the locker room up in Ann Arbor.

BigAppleBuckeye;791993 wrote:Just a thought: does anyone else feel the majority of our fans sweat Michigan way too much? We have owned them, why even bring them up until they are relevant again? I get it, it's a big rivalry, but constant attention is the ultimate compliment ... why give them that satisfaction?

ohiotiger33;791181 wrote:Nobody walked to Tommy Bowden's house LOL.

killer_ewok;791996 wrote:Did Tressel ever swear in public before this?

queencitybuckeye;792007 wrote:If one considers "damn" swearing, yes. Otherwise, I've never heard him do so.

BigAppleBuckeye;791993 wrote:Just a thought: does anyone else feel the majority of our fans sweat Michigan way too much? We have owned them, why even bring them up until they are relevant again? I get it, it's a big rivalry, but constant attention is the ultimate compliment ... why give them that satisfaction?