NFL News NFL News, Reports and Updates
Ohio State appears to be on the verge of losing its defensive coordinator to a Big Ten rival.
According to multiple reports, Jim Knowles is finalizing a three-year contract to become the coordinator at Penn State with an average annual salary of $3.1 million. Knowles is a Philadelphia native.
Ohio State had offered Knowles a contract extension that would make him the highest-paid defensive coordinator in college football. Michigan’s Wink Martindale will make $2.75 million in 2025.
It was all smiles for Ohio State football defensive coordinator Jim Knowles as he spoke with the media Tuesday, January 14, 2025 in the Woody Hayes Athletic Facility.
Knowles was not present during Ohio State’s celebration of its national championship at Ohio Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
Asked afterward by The Dispatch if he expects Knowles back, OSU coach Ryan Day said, “Yeah, I would expect him back.”
More: Celebrate Ohio State’s CFP championship with these books, posters and print keepsakes
Knowles has transformed Ohio State’s defense in his three seasons. He took over a unit that struggled badly in 2021. Last year, the Buckeyes led the country in most important statistical categories, including scoring defense and yardage allowed.
Buy Ohio State books, posters, gear from CFP title win
Offensive coordinator Chip Kelly also wasn’t in attendance Sunday. Day said he was on the road recruiting.
Get more Ohio State football news by listening to our podcasts.
This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Jim Knowles leaving Ohio State to be Penn State defensive coordinator
Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/ohio-state-football-defensive-coordinator-192826587.html
Author : The Columbus Dispatch
Publish date : 2025-01-26 19:28:00
Copyright for syndicated content belongs to the linked Source.
