Final NCAA defensive rankings for the 2025 season

Penn State Hires Jim Knowles from Ohio State as Defensive Coordinator on $3.1 Million Deal

Jan 26, 2025, 07:31 PM

Penn State has officially hired Jim Knowles as its new defensive coordinator, following a successful tenure at Ohio State where he led the team to a national championship with the nation's No. 1 defense. Knowles, a Philadelphia native and previously the highest-paid defensive coordinator at Ohio State, will now hold the title of the highest-paid coordinator in college football with a three-year contract averaging $3.1 million per year. The move marks a significant shift in the college football landscape, as Ohio State now faces the challenge of replacing Knowles. Knowles' decision to join Penn State was influenced by a competitive bidding process, with the Nittany Lions outlasting Ohio State's efforts to retain him. This hire is seen as a major coup for Penn State coach James Franklin, who aims to elevate the team's defense to new heights. Additionally, Penn State co-defensive coordinator Anthony Poindexter is expected to remain on staff with a new contract.