Penn State Hiring Jim Knowles Could Spark Virginia Tech Search for New Defensive Coordinator
It’a been six weeks since Virginia Tech football coach Brent Pry fired three assistant coaches, including defensive coordinator Chris Marve, but there has been little progress in filling the position. While former Hokie’s defensive coordinator Bud Foster joined the team as an advisor for the Dukes Mayo Bowl against Minnesota, he is not expected to return as DC. Shawn Quinn took over the defensive coordinator duties during the bowl game, which ended in a 24-10 loss to the Golden Gophers, but there have been no updates on the hiring process since then.
However, a recent move may set off a chain reaction that could lead to a hiring at Virginia Tech. Jim Knowles, who served as Ohio States defensive coordinator, is reportedly leaving the Buckeyes to take over at Penn State, following the departure of Tom Allen to Clemson. Knowles new deal with Penn State is reportedly worth $3.1 million, and his departure opens the door for potential candidates, including Penn State Co-defensive coordinator Anthony Poindexter.
Poindexter, a former Virginia Tech player, had been a candidate for the defensive coordinator role at Penn State but was passed over in favor of Knowles. This could make him a strong candidate for the open defensive coordinator position at Virginia Tech, a job that has been linked to him in the past. With Coach Pry taking his time to make the right hire, the next few weeks could be crucial as he looks to secure a strong defensive leader for what could be a pivotal season for him in Blacksburg.
