Penn State’s search for a new defensive coordinator has entered its second week, and the Nittany Lions are making a bold play for Jim Knowles, the mastermind behind Ohio State’s top-ranked defense.
According to Football Scoop, Penn State, Oklahoma, and Notre Dame are all vying for Knowles, but the Nittany Lions are reportedly the most aggressive, offering a jaw-dropping $3.2 million annual package. This would make Knowles the highest-paid assistant coach in college football history, surpassing LSU defensive coordinator Blake Baker’s 2024 salary of $2.5 million.
Oklahoma remains optimistic about landing Knowles and is prepared to offer up to $3 million per year. Notre Dame has also entered the race following the departure of Al Golden to the NFL. However, Penn State appears determined to win this bidding war, signaling how vital Knowles is to their championship aspirations.
Ohio State, meanwhile, is confident it can retain Knowles, but Football Scoop notes that the Buckeyes might begin to question whether fighting so hard to keep him is worth it. After all, Ohio State has already provided substantial resources to Knowles during his tenure.
Adding another layer of complexity, Knowles reportedly has a fiancé living in Oklahoma, potentially due to his time coaching at Oklahoma State from 2018-2021. This personal connection could influence his decision as he weighs his options.
The stakes are high for Penn State. Head coach James Franklin and athletic director Pat Kraft are making it clear they believe the Nittany Lions are on the verge of a national title run in 2025. Poaching Knowles from their Big Ten rival would be a statement move, but only time will tell if their all-in strategy pays off.
For now, the college football world watches as this high-stakes chess match unfolds.
