Analysis: Why hiring Jim Knowles means so much to Penn State football now and later

Penn State football changed its perception, and perhaps its immediate future, with one move.

With the hiring of one man.

The Nittany Lions and head coach James Franklin, athletic director Pat Kraft and university officials, proved, once and for all, that they are truly invested in becoming the top program in the nation.

At least it feels this way after Sunday reports that they’d lured away Ohio State defensive coordinator Jim Knowles — the very best in the business — to run their show. That they are close to finally ascending the college football mountain they’ve been seemingly picking their way along for the past decade, and seemingly handcuffed, as they went.

Whereas requisite talent and good fortune are required to make the College Football Playoff semifinals, as the Lions did this past season, you need even more to win it all — which they haven’t been in position to do in nearly 40 years.

These days, it means spending startling amounts of money to back up your discerning evaluations and rock-solid foundation.

And the Lions, are doing that now at full capability to give themselves the best chance at success.

Consider: Penn State reportedly landed arguably the nation’s top assistant coach … away from its hated rival … by making him the nation’s highest-paid at what he does, ever.

Penn State athletic director Pat Kraft gives head football coach James Franklin a big hug following a 33-24 win over Indiana at Beaver Stadium Saturday, Oct. 28, 2023, in State College, Pa.

That’s the kind of thing true national title contenders do. What Ohio State did. The Buckeyes owned one of the strongest returning player groups in the nation last year, spent big money on key transfers, lured a former NFL head coach to run its offense and re-upped Knowles’ deal.

They won it all, overcoming difficult storms along the way, because of…

Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/analysis-why-hiring-jim-knowles-010824890.html

Author : York Daily Record

Publish date : 2025-01-27 01:08:00

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