Ohio State defensive coordinator Jim Knowles left the Buckeyes program in a surprising turn of events, accepting the same job with the Penn State Nittany Lions

Fresh off a national title, the Buckeyes will be looking for a new defensive coordinator. Jim Knowles has left for conference rival Penn State and Ryan Day has his first hurdle of the offseason to deal with.

With Jim Knowles leaving Ohio State for Penn State, Oregon co-DC Chris Hampton is a candidate to replace him in Columbus.

Penn State quarterback Drew Allar runs as Ohio State defensive tackle Tyleik Williams, defensive tackle Ty Hamilton and defensive end JT Tuimoloau move in during the fourth quarter on Nov. 2, 2024. Joe Hermitt | [email protected] PennLive

Ohio State defensive coordinator Jim Knowles agreed to a contract with Penn State to take the same position on the Nittany Lions coaching staff, the

After he helped guide Ohio State to a national championship, Jim Knowles is finalizing a deal with Penn State to become the highest paid defensive coordinator in college football, ESPN reported Sunday.

Ohio State fans and dignitaries gathered at Ohio Stadium on Sunday to celebrate the Buckeyes' 2024 national championship run. Ohio State bested Notre Dame 34-23 in the College Football Playoff National Championship last week to win its first crown since 2014 and third since 1970.

Ohio State’s season is now over, which means its coaches can hit the recruiting trail. After a few weeks of playing in the playoffs and winning the national championship game, Ohio State coaches are able to get back out and focus on future Buckeye rosters.

The Ohio State Buckeyes are enjoying their national championship as much as they can, but it didn't take long for the rest of the country to turn their attention to next season. The Buckeyes have already lost Jim Knowles as defensive coordinator and could see Chip Kelly depart as well.