In a significant shift within the Big Ten Conference, Ohio State University’s defensive coordinator, Jim Knowles, has accepted a position with Penn State University, becoming the highest-paid defensive coordinator in college football history. Knowles’ departure comes on the heels of leading the Buckeyes to a national championship, where his defense was instrumental in securing the title.
At Penn State, Knowles will join head coach James Franklin’s staff under a three-year contract worth $3.1 million annually, surpassing the previous record of $2.5 million held by Michigan’s Wink Martindale and LSU’s Blake Baker. This move not only strengthens Penn State’s coaching roster but also intensifies the rivalry between the two programs.
During his tenure at Ohio State, Knowles transformed the defense into a formidable unit. The Buckeyes led the nation in total defense, allowing an average of 251.1 yards per game, and scoring defense, conceding just 12.2 points per game. This defensive prowess was pivotal in Ohio State’s 14-2 season, culminating in a national championship victory.
Knowles’ coaching career spans several decades and institutions. Before his success at Ohio State, he served as the defensive coordinator at Oklahoma State University from 2018 to 2021, where he significantly improved the Cowboys’ defensive metrics. His prior experience includes roles at Duke University, where he was the defensive coordinator and linebackers coach, and a head coaching stint at his alma mater, Cornell University.
As Knowles transitions to Penn State, Ohio State faces the challenge of filling the void left by his departure. The Buckeyes’ head coach, Ryan Day, will be tasked with identifying a successor capable of maintaining the high defensive standards established during Knowles’ tenure. This development adds a new layer of intrigue to the upcoming season, as both programs navigate the implications of this high-profile coaching change.
