The Ohio State Buckeyes secured the national championship this season with impressive performances, especially after the doubts raised by their fourth consecutive loss to the Michigan Wolverines. The Buckeyes made a strong comeback, showcasing their dominance throughout the playoff run by overcoming formidable opponents like the Tennessee Volunteers, Oregon Ducks, Texas Longhorns, and Notre Dame Fighting Irish, ultimately leading them to host the coveted trophy.
However, the coaching staff that played a crucial role in securing the title is beginning to fracture, with reports suggesting tensions among the group. Notably, Ohio State defensive coordinator Jim Knowles was reportedly asked not to attend the national title celebration while he considered his future options. His representatives attempted to negotiate a deal with Ohio State both a week prior to and immediately following the championship game, but the eventual offer was described as “well below” that of competitors. According to Brett McMurphy from Action Network, “Knowles signed a 3-year, $9.3 million deal with Penn State on Sunday.”
Ohio State DC Jim Knowles was asked by school not to attend Buckeyes’ national title celebration while he deliberated his options, source said. Knowles’ representation tried to reach deal w/OSU week before title game & immediately after, but eventual offer was “well below” the…
— Brett McMurphy (@Brett_McMurphy) January 27, 2025
Fans expressed their surprise on social media regarding the university’s decision to exclude Knowles from the celebration while he evaluated his future, which many believe influenced his choice to join Penn State. Comments on Twitter reflected various opinions: one user noted, “That would skew the payroll at OSU as all the other assistants would need a raise as well.. But, I do think a deal in that range would be what it takes to keep Chip Kelly. Not sure OSU has the stomach for that plus the others they will need to elevate. Should be interesting.” Another fan remarked, “This is great work by Knowles’ agent.” In contrast, another user questioned the narrative by stating, “This is such obvious spin by Jim’s agent. If he were deliberating his options, why was the news immediately leaked after the celebration? The news outlets were already sitting on the story waiting to break it. Folks should do some actual reporting and ask OSU players about it.” As the situation unfolds, it will be intriguing to see if more details emerge that have yet to be unveiled.
