Jim Knowles Says Penn State Football Was ‘Everything’ to Him in First Comments After OSU”

“Jim Knowles Says Penn State Football Was ‘Everything’ to Him in First Comments After OSU”

 

In his first public comments since leaving Ohio State to become the defensive coordinator at Penn State, Jim Knowles expressed his excitement and gratitude to be joining the Nittany Lions’ staff.

 

“Penn State football was everything to me growing up,” Knowles said in a statement released by the university. “To have the opportunity to be a part of this program and help shape the future of Penn State football is a dream come true.”

 

Knowles, who spent three seasons as the defensive coordinator at Ohio State, was widely regarded as one of the top defensive minds in the country. His departure from the Buckeyes was a surprise to many, but Knowles said that the opportunity to join Penn State was too good to pass up.

 

“I’m thrilled to be joining Coach Franklin’s staff and working with the talented group of players here at Penn State,” Knowles said. “I’m excited to get started and help this team achieve its goals.”

 

Knowles’ hiring is a major coup for Penn State, which has been looking to upgrade its defense after a disappointing 2022 season. The Nittany Lions are expected to be a major player in the Big Ten East this season, and Knowles’ expertise and experience will be a key factor in their success.

 

“Jim Knowles is a phenomenal coach and an even better person,” said Penn State head coach James Franklin. “We’re thrilled to have him join our staff and can’t wait to see the impact he’ll make on our defense.”

 

Knowles’ comments were his first public statements since leaving Ohio State, and they provided a glimpse into his thought process and motivations for making the move.

 

“I’m grateful for the experience and opportunities I had at Ohio State, but I’m excited for this new chapter in my career,” Knowles said. “Penn State is a special place with a rich tradition of excellence, and I’m honored to be a part of it.”

 

Knowles’ hiring has been met with widespread enthusiasm from Penn State fans and alumni, who are eager to see the impact he’ll make on the program. With his expertise and experience, Knowles is expected to be a key factor in the Nittany Lions’ success this season.

 

“What the Experts Are Saying About Jim Knowles’ Hiring”

 

– “Jim Knowles is a home-run hire for Penn State,” said ESPN analyst Todd McShay. “He’s a brilliant defensive mind who has a proven track record of success.”

– “Knowles’ departure from Ohio State is a significant blow to the Buckeyes,” said CBS Sports analyst Gary Danielson. “But it’s a huge win for Penn State, which is getting one of the top defensive coordinators in the country.”

 

“The Impact on Penn State’s Defense”

 

– Knowles’ hiring is expected to bring a new level of sophistication and aggressiveness to Penn State’s defense.

– The Nittany Lions are expected to switch to a more aggressive, blitz-heavy scheme under Knowles, which could lead to more turnovers and sacks.

– Knowles is also expected to bring a more disciplined approach to Penn State’s defense, which could lead to fewer penalties and better overall performance.

 

As Knowles begins his new chapter at Penn State, he’s eager to get started and make a positive impact on the program.

 

“I’m excited to get to work and help this team achieve its goals,” Knowles said. “Penn State football is a special thing, and I’m honored to be a part of it.”