Jim Knowles, Ohio State’s defensive coordinator, has accepted a position at Penn State, becoming the highest-paid defensive coordinator in college football with a three-year contract averaging $3.1 million per season.
Under Knowles’ leadership, Ohio State’s defense was instrumental in securing the national championship, leading the nation in both scoring defense (12.9 points per game) and total defense (254.6 yards per game).
Despite Ohio State’s offer to make him the highest-paid defensive coordinator with a salary exceeding $2.5 million annually, Knowles chose to join Penn State.
In a statement, Knowles expressed his enthusiasm for the new role: “I am excited for this opportunity to join Penn State football. I have always had a ton of respect for coach Franklin and the program he has built here. I look forward to working with this tremendous staff and group of student-athletes and am ready to get to work.”
Penn State head coach James Franklin praised the hire, stating, “He’s a strong strategist and excellent defensive mind. He reflects the core values our culture of excellence is built upon. We look forward to having Jim and his family join us in Happy Valley.”
Knowles’ departure from Ohio State marks a significant shift in Big Ten football dynamics, as he brings his defensive expertise to one of the Buckeyes’ primary rivals.