Penn State Hires Ohio State's Knowles as Coordinator

Penn State football coach James Franklin has successfully hired Jim Knowles as the new defensive coordinator, following Tom Allen's departure to Clemson. The pivotal moment came with a 5:40 a.m. call two days after the national championship, which allowed Franklin to pursue Knowles, previously with Ohio State. Knowles, who had been a target since 2021, signed a three-year contract worth over $9 million, making him the highest-paid assistant in college football. Franklin credited the support of Penn State's administration for the successful hire and noted the excitement among players and fans. The hiring process was complex, involving potential candidates from both the NFL and college ranks, including a former approach to USC's D'Anton Lynn.