Fresh off their national championship victory, the Ohio State Buckeyes are already focused on securing their future, and that includes retaining their top defensive mind, Jim Knowles. According to On3, the university is offering Knowles a contract that would make him the highest-paid defensive coordinator (DC) in college football. However, several other major programs are also eyeing him for their defensive coordinator positions, which could make the decision a challenging one.
Knowles is currently earning about $2.2 million annually at Ohio State, a salary that lags behind some other top DCs, including LSU Blake Baker. Under his leadership, the Buckeye defense has become one of the best in the country, finishing 2024 with the top ranking in yards allowed per play, giving up just 4.19 yards per play. The defense has improved steadily each year with Knowles at the helm, making significant strides since his arrival in 2022.
Ohio State defense played a crucial role in the team journey to a national title. The Buckeyes dominated teams like Tennessee, Oregon, and Texas, before overcoming a tough challenge from Notre Dame in the final. Knowles’ defense was pivotal in their success, holding opponents to no more than 23 points in the entire College Football Playoff.
Several schools, including Notre Dame, Penn State, and Oklahoma, are in search of a defensive coordinator and would be eager to poach Knowles from Ohio State. The Buckeyes recent run to the national championship was fueled by both explosive offensive performances and a defense that stepped up in key moments.
When Knowles first joined Ohio State in 2022, the defense ranked 37th in yards allowed per play. By 2023, it had jumped to 3rd, and under his guidance in 2024, it reached the top spot nationally. As the Buckeyes look ahead, retaining Knowles could be key to maintaining their defensive dominance.
