Ohio State defense played a critical role in securing the team national championship title, leading in key areas like points allowed, total yards, and passing yards per game. Jim Knowles, the defensive coordinator, has been the architect of this dominant defense, improving year after year. His strategic brilliance was a cornerstone of the Buckeyes success.
Even before Ohio State national championship victory was complete, rumors swirled about Knowles potentially leaving for other programs that were keen to hire him. To keep him in Columbus, Ohio State quickly responded with a significant contract offer. According to Joey Kaufman of the Columbus Dispatch, the Buckeyes have proposed a deal that would make Knowles the highest-paid defensive coordinator in college football, surpassing Michigan Wink Martindale.
Knowles has earned this raise after proving himself as one of the best in the business, and it clear that he deserves to be compensated at that level. While it uncertain if Knowles will accept the offer, the money on the table makes it a difficult one to decline. Should he decide to stay, the Buckeyes would benefit from the continuity of his defensive system, even with the loss of key players. This is a top priority for Ohio State as they celebrate their national title and look to maintain defensive excellence moving forward.
