Just days after securing the 2024-25 CFP National Championship, the Ohio State Buckeyes are facing a significant loss with the departure of a key coaching figure.
Reports from various sources indicate that Jim Knowles, the defensive coordinator for Ohio State, is set to leave Columbus for a similar position at Penn State. This development was first brought to light by Ross Dellenger of Yahoo Sports.
Knowles will be filling the position left vacant by Tom Allen at Penn State, who earlier this month accepted a role on Dabo Swinney’s Clemson team.
Ohio State DC Jim Knowles is expected to become the new defensive coordinator at Penn State, sources tell @YahooSports. The two sides are in the process of finalizing an agreement. Big hire for James Franklin.
— Ross Dellenger (@RossDellenger) January 26, 2025
According to Bryan Fischer of Sports Illustrated, Knowles’ new contract with Penn State will exceed $3 million annually, making him the highest-paid coordinator in college football. Fischer also noted that the total compensation over three years could reach the eight-figure range, depending on bonuses.
Told by a source that Jim Knowles deal with PSU will indeed put him over $3 million a year to make him the highest paid coordinator in CFB. Potential bonuses each season could take the three year deal into eight figure territory.
— Bryan Fischer (@BryanDFischer) January 26, 2025
Under Knowles’ leadership, Ohio State’s defense was a formidable force, leading the nation in yards allowed, scoring defense, and red zone defense during their championship-winning season.
The 54-year-old coach has a rich history as a defensive coordinator, with previous stints at Duke from 2010 to 2017, and Oklahoma State from 2018 to 2021. His only head coaching role was at Cornell from 2004 to 2009.
Knowles is joining a Penn State team that had a strong season, finishing 13-3 and making it to the CFP Semifinal where they were defeated by Notre Dame.
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