Football Penn State set to hire Ohio State DC Jim Knowles as Defensive Coordinator

[lazydave841]

A majority of Buckeye fans wanted to run Knowles out of town for the UGA loss in the '22 playoff, and the first 3 losses to Michigan. Granted, a lot of it was knee jerk and very similar to our in game threads, but still.

The reality is, the '24 Buckeyes defense was the result of 2 primary things:

1. Every starter was an upper classman, except for Downs (probably one of the 5 best defensive players in the country), that OSU recruited from their years of top 5 classes. Tons of 4th and 5th year guys who could have been on an NFL roster if not for NIL retention.

2. Knowles was in his 3rd year coaching the majority of the same players.

It's been so long since we have seen that type of continuity in cfb that it baffles us on average, although Michigan essentially did the same thing from '21 to '23 (albeit with more transfers and the opposing teams signs).

If I were to take a stab at it, I figure Knowles stays at OSU. Whatever anyone is willing to overpay, the Buckeyes will match. If Knowles wanted out, I figure he gets out with less fanfare than this. This was about driving up the extention IMO because the Buckeye defense will take a step back in '25. How much is to be seen, but you don't lose what they are losing and improve.

 

[Lion_Backer]

They might of offered him the extension but nothing has been signed.

The longer the period of time from when the offer by OSU was made from when a decision is announced by Knowles the greater the chance is that his services are still in play.

I can't imagine Knowles wanting to prolong the process and string his other suitors along when he has already made his decision.

 

[rrdd2021]

He’s not. It’s all salary drive up smoke and mirrors. They bought a team that any DC would be doing well with.

I pulled up OSU's 2024 Portal and the only defensive player that came in and played was Caleb Downs The 2nd defensive Portal player - Keenan Nelson - supposedly didn't play much this year ..... if at all.

20 out of the 22 defensive 2024 players - (the2-deep) - defensive players were recruited by OSU or were already on the roster. So I'm wondering what defensive players they bought besides Caleb Downs?

They only brought in 7 Portal transfers in 2024. See attachment. They recruit top 3 or 4 every year and don't have to rely on massive amounts of transfers

https://247sports.com/college/ohio-state/season/2024-football/transferportal/?institutionkey=24046

 

[LandoComando]

Your NIL numbers are incorrect. For the 2024 season OSU was #2 at $20M. Texas was #1.

https://247sports.com/longformarticle/college-football-nil-collective-leaders-for-2025-ncaa-estimates-nations-top-25-spenders-241949240/amp/

Those are my official. Stop trying to claim there's real info on it

 

[Crusher1950]

This guy isn’t good anywhere he’s staying at OSU

 

[rrdd2021]

Sonny Styles was also a portal gain for OSU two years ago. Him and Downs were huge additions to that defense.

Sonny Styles was also a portal addition two years ago to the OSU defense. With the portal in of Downs, Styles was able to play more of a LBer role in blitz packages instead of playing Safety. Styles & Downs were huge additions for the OSU defense.

This is wrong. Sonny Styles signed with OSU out of nearby Pickerington, OH HS (suburb of Columbus) and wanted to be a Buckeye his whole life. He went to a ton of OSU games with his father who played for OSU - I believe - in the 90s

 

[WaffleShopper]

I pulled up OSU's 2024 Portal and the only defensive player that came in and played was Caleb Downs The 2nd defensive Portal player - Keenan Nelson - supposedly didn't play much this year ..... if at all.

20 out of the 22 defensive 2024 players - (the2-deep) - defensive players were recruited by OSU or were already on the roster. So I'm wondering what defensive players they bought besides Caleb Downs?

They only brought in 7 Portal transfers in 2024. See attachment. They recruit top 3 or 4 every year and don't have to rely on massive amounts of transfers

https://247sports.com/college/ohio-state/season/2024-football/transferportal/?institutionkey=24046

He might be referring to the other players that typically leave early for the draft but were paid handsomely to stay. We didn't have many leave but I'd imagine our defense would have been a lot better this year just with Curtis Jacobs and Chop Robinson.

 

[rrdd2021]

He might be referring to the other players that typically leave early for the draft but were paid handsomely to stay. We didn't have many leave but I'd imagine our defense would have been a lot better this year just with Curtis Jacobs and Chop Robinson.

OK, I can go with that. But my point was that OSU (Georgia, Texas, etc....) don't have to rely on the Portal much - the big boys recruit at another level and develop those players that sign with them out of HS

 

[RickinDayton]

Sonny was recruited out of high school ( Pickerington North ) and wasn't a transfer. His brother Lorenzo Jr WAS a transfer from ND but really hasn't been much of a factor in his two years in Columbus. And if I remember correctly he wasn't really a "big money" guy. He came to OSU because he was unhappy at ND, wanted to return home ( the family is from the Columbus area and Dad was a standout linebacker at OSU in the 90s) and to change positions and play with his brother. NIL wasn't really a big issue with him.

I thought Styles was the transfer ,safety from Oklahoma State. Who was that?

 

[lazydave841]

But my point was that OSU (Georgia, Texas, etc....) don't have to rely on the Portal much

Rely on it, no. Supplement with high end talent? Absolutely.

Downs and Judkins were probably the top defensive and non-QB offensive players in the portal last year. The effect they have is huge and can't be undervalued.

They also brought in the QB Will Howard. His performance all year was huge. He put nothing like that on tape previously and basically slinged the ball around at 73%. The weapons matter, but he exceeded expectations.

Does anybody think Devin Brown does this? True Freshman Sayin?

The fact is, this was a masterclass in how to portal. They got high end guys and filled the few gaps they had from recruiting. Based on their NIL retention, they were the favorite from the preseason on after returning basically everyone from the '23 team. They still relied on it. They just weren't a team full of mercenaries.

 

[PSUSignore]

At this point, isn't it safe to say they've botched this search? Maybe we get lucky and we find someone last minute but his hasn't been impressive

How is making a legit play for Knowles by offering him the biggest coordinator salary except all but a handful of NFL coordinators "botching the search?" I'd say the exact opposite, it proves we came to play with the biggest of big boy programs and even getting Knowles to consider a lateral move to PSU, let's be honest it's a downgrade from OSU, is a positive sign for the program. Who cares if he used us for leverage, you gotta shoot your shot and even getting PSU to make such an offer and getting someone of Knowles caliber to even listen is a win.

 

[PSUSignore]

When you're chasing people you have to get them. Period.

This is an idiotic statement. So every program that misses on a stud recruit... botched. Every missed coaching hire... botched. Every partner you ever dated who dumped you or you didn't marry... sorry buddy, you botched it.

Are you suggesting we only search and pursue what is expected to be attainable? What a loser mentality that is.

 

[rrdd2021]

Rely on it, no. Supplement with high end talent? Absolutely.

Downs and Judkins were probably the top defensive and non-QB offensive players in the portal last year. The effect they have is huge and can't be undervalued.

They also brought in the QB Will Howard. His performance all year was huge. He put nothing like that on tape previously and basically slinged the ball around at 73%. The weapons matter, but he exceeded expectations.

Does anybody think Devin Brown does this? True Freshman Sayin?

The fact is, this was a masterclass in how to portal. They got high end guys and filled the few gaps they had from recruiting. Based on their NIL retention, they were the favorite from the preseason on after returning basically everyone from the '23 team. They still relied on it. They just weren't a team full of mercenaries.

Agree, no argument at all. Not just OSU, but many of the top recruiting schools can be selective. Heck, PSU only brought in 6 Portal transfers for 2024 (this year). Kudos to CJF and his recruiting and development. See attachment

https://247sports.com/college/penn-state/season/2024-football/transferportal/?institutionkey=24047

 

[gmen6981]

I thought Styles was the transfer ,safety from Oklahoma State. Who was that?

Tanner McCallister. He came to OSU with Knowles and was only at OSU for one season in 2022.

 

[gmen6981]

Rely on it, no. Supplement with high end talent? Absolutely.

Downs and Judkins were probably the top defensive and non-QB offensive players in the portal last year. The effect they have is huge and can't be undervalued.

They also brought in the QB Will Howard. His performance all year was huge. He put nothing like that on tape previously and basically slinged the ball around at 73%. The weapons matter, but he exceeded expectations.

Does anybody think Devin Brown does this? True Freshman Sayin?

The fact is, this was a masterclass in how to portal. They got high end guys and filled the few gaps they had from recruiting. Based on their NIL retention, they were the favorite from the preseason on after returning basically everyone from the '23 team. They still relied on it. They just weren't a team full of mercenaries.

I would say it's somewhat reversed in that OSU has been using the portal to fill in positions of need but is relying on recruiting first. Last year they kind of caught lightning in a bottle because I seriously doubt they end up with Downs, McLaughlin or Sayin ( who is still a redshirt) if Saban didn't retire. Downs and Sayin both said it was an easy choice because they were both heavily recruited by OSU to begin with and for both of them their final choices were between Bama and OSU. Judkins was tired of being overused at Ole Miss and liked the opportunity to split carries with Henderson. Looking at this years freshman class and who they have already picked up in the portal, I don't think we will see the "big names" like those guys coming to Columbus this year. I think they will still try to find some experience on both lines, but unless something unusual happens they are probably pretty well done in the portal.

 

[lazydave841]

I would say it's somewhat reversed in that OSU has been using the portal to fill in positions of need but is relying on recruiting first. Last year they kind of caught lightning in a bottle because I seriously doubt they end up with Downs, McLaughlin or Sayin ( who is still a redshirt) if Saban didn't retire. Downs and Sayin both said it was an easy choice because they were both heavily recruited by OSU to begin with and for both of them their final choices were between Bama and OSU. Judkins was tired of being overused at Ole Miss and liked the opportunity to split carries with Henderson. Looking at this years freshman class and who they have already picked up in the portal, I don't think we will see the "big names" like those guys coming to Columbus this year. I think they will still try to find some experience on both lines, but unless something unusual happens they are probably pretty well done in the portal.

What big names are in the portal this year? No Judkins or Downs type. It's not that they aren't interested per say. They just aren't in the portal.

Last year, they went all in. They were already bringing the roster back. They just supplemented it with some big fish. Those fish aren't out there this year. Otherwise, I believe they would be in on them as well.

 

[LandoComando]

How is making a legit play for Knowles by offering him the biggest coordinator salary except all but a handful of NFL coordinators "botching the search?" I'd say the exact opposite, it proves we came to play with the biggest of big boy programs and even getting Knowles to consider a lateral move to PSU, let's be honest it's a downgrade from OSU, is a positive sign for the program. Who cares if he used us for leverage, you gotta shoot your shot and even getting PSU to make such an offer and getting someone of Knowles caliber to even listen is a win.

And if you don't get him....you better have a much better plan than promoting internally
The chased Lynn for a reason
Putting all your eggs in a basket that is likely going to be dropped isn't smart and it appears to be exactly what they did.

 

[LandoComando]

This is an idiotic statement. So every program that misses on a stud recruit... botched. Every missed coaching hire... botched. Every partner you ever dated who dumped you or you didn't marry... sorry buddy, you botched it.

Are you suggesting we only search and pursue what is expected to be attainable? What a loser mentality that is.

Missing a recruit and a coach aren't the same.
Yes, most of us have "botched" a relationship or two in our life
And, yes, most coaches have "botched" their attempt to land a recruit
It's comical to defend what's happening here but you also ignored everyone else that was critical--predictably

 

[RickinDayton]

Tanner McCallister. He came to OSU with Knowles and was only at OSU for one season in 2022.

OK, thanks. I confused him with Styles. My mistake.

 

[PSUWrestlingFanSince2011]

OSU just gave him a contract extension making him the highest paid DC in College Football.

Lol ok

 

[RickinDayton]

Lol ok

PSU back to square one.

 

[dailybuck777]

PSU back to square one.

I don't see that yet in my quick review of cleveland.com and 11 warriors. I would add that Knowles frequently referred to his Philadelphia background during his press conferences, so I wouldn't be surprised, unfortunately, that he might be seriously interested in Penn state.

 

[PSUWrestlingFanSince2011]

I don't see that yet in my quick review of cleveland.com and 11 warriors. I would add that Knowles frequently referred to his Philadelphia background during his press conferences, so I wouldn't be surprised, unfortunately, that he might be seriously interested in Penn state.

Knowles is coming to PSU. Looks like we may have offered 3.5 to close the deal to fend off others. We are going all in for the Natty this year if you guys havent noticed. As I said before wont be announced until after the parade. So coming soon to PSU.

 

[RickinDayton]

I don't see that yet in my quick review of cleveland.com and 11 warriors. I would add that Knowles frequently referred to his Philadelphia background during his press conferences, so I wouldn't be surprised, unfortunately, that he might be seriously interested in Penn state.

You're a straight shooter. I trust what you are saying. Knowles is probably being pulled in many directions. Difficult decision pending or already privately made.

 

[NedFromYork]

That's great. But we also need an elite receiver, Top end WR Coach, a good LB add, a good DB add.

 

[Lion_Backer]

Knowles is coming to PSU. Looks like we may have offered 3.5 to close the deal to fend off others. We are going all in for the Natty this year if you guys havent noticed. As I said before wont be announced until after the parade. So coming soon to PSU.

I believe that Knowles is still under contract with OSU through 2026. In order to acquire his services, it will cost an estimated $1.2mm as a buyout in addition to PSU's proposal.

I do think that he is a really good coach. But that is a lot of money.

And what will be the domino effect on other coaches salaries.....

 

[PSUWrestlingFanSince2011]

I believe that Knowles is still under contract with OSU through 2026. In order to acquire his services, it will cost an estimated $1.2mm as a buyout in addition to PSU's proposal.

I do think that he is a really good coach. But that is a lot of money.

And what will be the domino effect on other coaches salaries.....

PSU is all in to win a Natty. Other coaches salaries will be dealt with after next year. Next year is all that matters right now.

 

[rrdd2021]

I believe that Knowles is still under contract with OSU through 2026. In order to acquire his services, it will cost an estimated $1.2mm as a buyout in addition to PSU's proposal.

I do think that he is a really good coach. But that is a lot of money.

And what will be the domino effect on other coaches salaries.....

This. There are a number of solid DCs (and younger ones) that will jump at a shot to coach at OSU and PSU. Not so sure about Oklahoma with the way they've been going under Venables

 

[PSUWrestlingFanSince2011]

I believe that Knowles is still under contract with OSU through 2026. In order to acquire his services, it will cost an estimated $1.2mm as a buyout in addition to PSU's proposal.

I do think that he is a really good coach. But that is a lot of money.

And what will be the domino effect on other coaches salaries.....

Pegula is in the works on this one fyi. Dont worry about a couple of extra million.

 

[Lion_Backer]

Pegula is in the works on this one fyi. Dont worry about a couple of extra million.

I appreciate the insight.

That's kind of what I was thinking but had no first hand knowledge.

 

[Lion_Backer]

I appreciate the insight.

That's kind of what I was thinking but had no first hand knowledge.

Not sure how relevant this is, but Coach Knowles was responsible for 2 recruits for OSU's 2025 class one of which is 6' 3" 200 5* LB from TX.....

 

[dailybuck777]

Knowles is coming to PSU. Looks like we may have offered 3.5 to close the deal to fend off others. We are going all in for the Natty this year if you guys havent noticed. As I said before wont be announced until after the parade. So coming soon to PSU.

I doubt that money is an issue. 2 million or 4 million -- what difference does it make to OSU which is the only game in town in Columbus. On the other hand, there does seem to be non-monetary issues that may influence Knowles to leave.

 

[PSUWrestlingFanSince2011]

I doubt that money is an issue. 2 million or 4 million -- what difference does it make to OSU which is the only game in town in Columbus. On the other hand, there does seem to be non-monetary issues that may influence Knowles to leave.

Money matters here or else he would have announced that hes staying at OSU. PSU is offering the most $.

 

[LandoComando]

Pegula is in the works on this one fyi. Dont worry about a couple of extra million.

This is why we have no excuse with NIL

 

[LandoComando]

Money matters here or else he would have announced that hes staying at OSU. PSU is offering the most $.

Wait--now Ohio State can't come up with more money? That seems unlikely--half this board bitches constantly that they have the most money

 

[dukecorey]

Terry Pegula is awesome and a great Penn State booster.

 

[PennState_one]

Still require NIL $$$$ to keep players even if you had originally got the commitments.

 

[PSUWrestlingFanSince2011]

Wait--now Ohio State can't come up with more money? That seems unlikely--half this board bitches constantly that they have the most money

Im sure they can but they offered what they offered. Highest paid DC. And do not necessarily have billionaires to win over his services.

 

[LandoComando]

Im sure they can but they offered what they offered. Highest paid DC. And do not necessarily have billionaires to win over his services.

There's no two options here. Either we have money and need to stop making excuses or we don't. We clearly have money

 

[MacNit2.0]

How is making a legit play for Knowles by offering him the biggest coordinator salary except all but a handful of NFL coordinators "botching the search?" I'd say the exact opposite, it proves we came to play with the biggest of big boy programs and even getting Knowles to consider a lateral move to PSU, let's be honest it's a downgrade from OSU, is a positive sign for the program. Who cares if he used us for leverage, you gotta shoot your shot and even getting PSU to make such an offer and getting someone of Knowles caliber to even listen is a win.

Kind of like our team results? Play’em close, call it a victory, get’em next year…beat Akron, Minnesota, Rutgers, lose to O$U, and anyone else with equal or better talent…rinse, repeat…can we make it 12 years of this? 15? 20? Oh I forgot, give Franklin a raise and an extension, blame coordinators and everyone else and run them out of town…argue with students about blowing another 4Q lead…rinse, repeat