Jim Knowles Joins Penn State as Defensive Coordinator After Ohio State Championship Win

Knowles cites a lifelong connection to Penn State and a vision to help the team achieve its first national title in nearly 40 years.

Jim Knowles has left Ohio State to become Penn State's defensive coordinator, signing a three-year deal worth $3.1 million annually, making him the highest-paid defensive coordinator in college football.
Knowles played a key role in Ohio State's recent national championship, leading the defense to top rankings in multiple categories, including scoring defense and total yards allowed per play.
Citing his Philadelphia roots and childhood admiration for Penn State, Knowles described the opportunity as fulfilling a lifelong dream and highlighted his belief in the team's potential to win a national title.
Knowles replaces Tom Allen, who departed for Clemson, and joins a Penn State program returning key players like quarterback Drew Allar and defensive standout Dani Dennis-Sutton.
Ohio State, facing the challenge of replacing Knowles and other departing coaches, is exploring both internal and external candidates to maintain continuity and defensive excellence.