COLUMBUS, Ohio — Ohio State football’s national title defense will come with a new face running the defense. The Buckeyes are losing defensive coordinator Jim Knowles. After three seasons in Columbus, he’s leaving to serve as Penn State’s defensive coordinator, according to multiple reports.

Ohio State defensive coordinator Jim Knowles is reportedly leaving for Penn State. Knowles had reportedly been a top candidate for OU's opening.

The Philadelphia native and St. Joseph’s Prep alum will become Penn State’s next defensive coordinator, according to multiple reports on Sunday. Knowles has been with Ohio State since 2022, and reportedly will be the highest-paid coordinator in college football history. The deal, according to ESPN, is worth $3.1 million over three years.