The Ohio State Buckeyes recently celebrated a national championship victory against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. Despite suffering a fourth consecutive loss to their fierce rivals, the Michigan Wolverines, many had written off the Buckeyes. Yet, the team united and embarked on a historically dominant run, crushing the Tennessee Volunteers, Oregon Ducks, and Texas Longhorns, with the Longhorns proving to be the only genuine challenge.
Following such an impressive showcase of offense, defense, and special teams, the atmosphere in Columbus was electric. However, the program faced unexpected turmoil last Sunday. While fans were celebrating in Ohio Stadium, news broke that could significantly impact the program’s future stability and dominance.
“Sources: Ohio State defensive coordinator Jim Knowles is finalizing a three-year deal to become the new defensive coordinator at Penn State. It averages $3.1 million over three years,” reported ESPN’s College Football insider Pete Thamel.
Sources: Ohio State defensive coordinator Jim Knowles is finalizing a three-year deal to become the new defensive coordinator at Penn State. It averages $3.1 million over three years. pic.twitter.com/fdI7ajMx4o
— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) January 26, 2025
Fans took to social media to share their reactions to the news. Comments ranged from one user who exclaimed, “James Franklin fishguts Ohio State fans on their day of celebration. It’s glorious,” to another who questioned, “What are the chances that Luke Fickell would leave for the Ohio State DC job?” One fan noted, “I don’t know when PSU fans or brass will see it but I think this is as good of chance as any. With Knowles and Kotelnicki, you have two of the top coordinators in the business. It won’t be their fault if they don’t win; it will always be Franklin.” As the program moves forward, it will be intriguing to see who the Buckeyes choose to fill Knowles’ position.
