Ohio State University is potentially facing a significant transition in its football program as defensive coordinator Jim Knowles is reportedly nearing a three-year agreement with rival Penn State. This contract would provide Knowles, originally hailing from Philadelphia, with an average annual salary of approximately $3.1 million.
Despite Ohio State’s efforts to retain Knowles, including offering him a contract extension that would reportedly make him the highest-paid defensive coordinator in college football, the looming departure could reshape the coaching staff. Comparatively, Michigan’s Wink Martindale is set to earn $2.75 million in 2025, emphasizing the competitive nature of salaries for key coaching positions within the Big Ten.
Knowles has had a transformative impact on Ohio State’s defense during his tenure. Taking command of a struggling unit in 2021, he helped the Buckeyes to lead the nation in critical defensive metrics, such as scoring defense and overall yardage allowed last season. His absence during the recent national championship celebration raised eyebrows, especially when coach Ryan Day expressed optimism about Knowles staying, yet later acknowledged a degree of uncertainty.
Should Knowles decide to leave, Ohio State currently lacks a clear in-house successor, although safeties coach Matt Guerrieri, a protégé of Knowles, has been suggested as a possible candidate. Guerrieri joined the staff after having previously served as co-coordinator at Indiana and has been commended by Day as “one of the brightest minds in college football.”
Adding to the discussion, Penn State recently faced its own transition as former defensive coordinator Tom Allen departed for a similar role at Clemson, opening the door for Knowles to potentially step in at Penn State.
It’s noteworthy that should Knowles depart, he would owe Ohio State a buyout equaling 30% of his base salary—approximately $1.32 million—adding another layer to the coaching dynamics.
As discussions continue around his potential move, Ohio State’s football community remains hopeful for a resolution that affirms the strength of the program while also recognizing the competitive nature of collegiate coaching. This situation highlights not only the strategic importance of coaching staff in college sports but the ever-evolving landscape shaped by team rivalries and financial incentives.