By Mark Schmetzer
Enquirer contributor

OXFORD - Miami football defensive coordinator Jon Wauford, who faces battery charges in Huntington, W.Va., related to an incident following the RedHawks' loss to Marshall on Nov. 12, has resigned, the university announced Saturday.

Wauford, 32, was arrested for allegedly striking a fan who had run on the field following the Thundering Herd's 36-34 win. Wauford has pleaded not guilty to the charge, but he was suspended by the university after the incident.

According to a press release, Wauford, in his resignation letter, said he regretted "that the incident at Marshall brought such unfortunate negative publicity to the football program, and although I have enjoyed my association with Miami University athletics, I have decided that it is in the best interest of Miami University, my family, and me to move on."

Wauford, a 1995 Miami graduate and former RedHawk player, was in his third season as the defensive coordinator.

"Coach Wauford's resignation brings a close to a lamentable incident in Miami athletics," university president James Garland said in a statement. "We respect Coach Wauford's decision and hope that Miami can continue to be seen as representing the highest standards for sportsmanship and integrity."

Brad Bates, who was hired as Miami's athletic director in November, said Wauford was not asked to resign and that he wasn't aware of any efforts to make Wauford change his mind.

Miami coach Terry Hoeppner was away from Oxford recruiting and was unavailable for comment.

Linebackers coach Taver Johnson also was suspended following the Marshall game for causing damage to the coaches booth.

Johnson's suspension includes recruiting and lasts until Feb. 5, the first day recruits can sign letters of intent.

Wauford's resignation is effective no later than May 4, the end of Miami's academic year. Miami officials said the university still could take disciplinary action if Wauford is convicted of a crime before his resignation is effective.