---

Ohio State announced Tuesday that College Football Hall of Fame coach Lou Holtz and Nike founder Phil Knight will act as guest coaches for the Buckeyes’ spring game on April 15.

---

Two long-time relationships helped add a twist to the 2017 Ohio State spring game.

College Football Hall of Fame coach Lou Holtz and Nike founder Phil Knight will act as guest coaches for the Buckeyes’ annual scrimmage, held this year on Saturday, April 15. Holtz, who is the only coach in history to guide six different programs to a bowl game, hired Meyer in 1996 to be Notre Dame’s receivers coach.

Ohio State and Nike have been partners for more than 20 years and last January agreed on a deal that last through 2033. Knight spoke to the Buckeyes on Nov. 26 after they beat rival Michigan 30-27 in double overtime at Ohio Stadium.

“I am very close to each of these individuals and I have enjoyed their friendship over many years,” Meyer said in a statement released by Ohio State, “but even more I respect the impact they have had on Ohio State and college football. I am looking forward to having Coach Holtz and Phil Knight on our campus as guest coaches, and I am very appreciative they want to take part in and support our spring game.”

Coaching in Ohio State’s spring game is yet another honor for Knight ahead of his 80th birthday, which is Feb. 24 of next year. The Buckeyes also will compete in the Phil Knight Invitational basketball tournament in Portland from Nov. 23-26, an event that also features blue-blood programs like Duke, North Carolina and Michigan State designed for an early birthday celebration.

MORE: Ohio State Spring Football Practice Preview, Storylines To Watch