Ohio State’s 2024 national championship victory came with a steep cost: a mass exodus of talent and coaching staff. Head coach **Ryan Day** watched as key players like quarterback **Will Howard**, defensive ends **Jack Sawyer** and **J.T. Tuimoloau**, and wide receiver **Emeka Egbuka** declared for the NFL Draft, while others, including offensive linemen **George Fitzpatrick** and **Zen Michalski**, entered the transfer portal.
The coaching staff also took a hit, with offensive coordinator **Chip Kelly** and defensive coordinator **Jim Knowles** departing for the Las Vegas Raiders and Penn State, respectively. Knowles’ exit, in particular, raised eyebrows due to rumored tensions with defensive line coach **Larry Johnson**. Reports suggested clashes over defensive schemes, including the failed experiment of using Sawyer as a hybrid “jack” linebacker in 2022. However, Johnson has denied any friction, emphasizing a professional relationship.
Now at Penn State, Knowles is determined to replicate his Ohio State success. Despite skepticism about the Nittany Lions’ ability to compete at an elite level, Knowles believes they’re close to contending for a national title. *“My aspiration is to help Penn State win the national championship and be the No. 1 defense in the country,”* he said.
While Knowles’ lone-wolf approach to defense has drawn criticism, his track record speaks for itself. If he can harness Penn State’s potential, the Nittany Lions could become a formidable force under his guidance. For Ohio State, the challenge is rebuilding after losing so much talent and leadership, both on and off the field.
The Buckeyes’ 2025 season will test Day’s ability to reload, while Knowles’ Penn State tenure could redefine the Big Ten’s defensive landscape.
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