“Things Got ‘Awkward’: Jim Knowles Opens Up About Move from Ohio State to Penn State”

In a move that sent ripples through the college football community, Jim Knowles, the architect behind Ohio State’s top-ranked defense, transitioned to Penn State as their new defensive coordinator. The decision, while rooted in personal aspirations and professional growth, was not without its complexities and emotional undertones.

A Homecoming Decades in the Making

Growing up in North Philadelphia, Knowles was immersed in Penn State football culture. With limited television channels, Sunday mornings were reserved for watching Penn State highlights, fostering a deep-seated admiration for the Nittany Lions. Though he never played for Penn State, his coaching journey, spanning over three decades, brought him full circle to the program he revered as a child.

“Penn State was everything,” Knowles reflected. “That’s what we aspired to be. And I couldn’t get there as a player, but through a lot of work, a lot of time, a lot of really good players, that allowed me to reach that point in my career where I could really pick wherever I wanted to be. And growing up as a kid, Penn State was everything, and this is where I want to be.”

Departing a Championship Legacy

Under Knowles’ guidance, Ohio State’s defense was formidable, leading the nation in both total defense and scoring defense during their championship run. The Buckeyes allowed just 251.1 yards and 12.2 points per game, culminating in a 34-23 victory over Notre Dame in the national title game.

Despite these achievements, Knowles’ departure was met with mixed emotions. Reports suggest that during his deliberation period, Ohio State asked him not to attend the team’s championship celebration, a decision that added an “awkward” layer to his exit.

The Lure of Penn State

Beyond personal ties, Penn State presented a compelling professional opportunity. The Nittany Lions, fresh off a College Football Playoff semifinal appearance and boasting a defense ranked seventh nationally, offered Knowles a platform to further his legacy. Moreover, Penn State’s commitment was evident in their offer, making him the highest-paid defensive coordinator in college football with a three-year, $3.1 million per season deal.

“You reach a point in your career where you’re given opportunities based on past performance,” Knowles noted. “And as I said, Penn State, for me, growing up in inner-city Philly, was the epitome of football when I was a kid. It’s really where I want to be to continue my career and bring any expertise that I can to the organization.”

Embracing a New Challenge

Knowles is acutely aware of the expectations at Penn State. With a defense already among the nation’s elite, his role is to elevate it further, aiming for a national championship. He emphasized a commitment to teaching, ensuring players are well-prepared and positioned to succeed.

“I think I can help,” he said. “I think I can be of service. Once you get past thinking you’re going to be the head coach of the Green Bay Packers as you move forward in your career, you really start thinking about, how can I be of service? Where can I add to a great team, and be a part of a great team? And this is the place, because everything here is so close to winning it all, and I’m hopeful that I can help get it there.”

Looking Ahead

As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on Knowles and the Penn State defense. With a blend of personal passion and professional ambition, Knowles is poised to make a significant impact in Happy Valley. While his departure from Ohio State had its challenges, his focus remains on the future and the pursuit of excellence with the Nittany Lions.

“This is where I want to be,” Knowles affirmed, signaling the beginning of a new chapter in his storied coaching career.