Jim Knowles Will Be the Next DC at Oklahoma

Jim Knowles Will Be the Next DC at Oklahoma Jim Knowles Will Be the Next DC at Oklahoma
Ohio State Buckeyes defensive coordinator Jim Knowles talks to media shortly after the team arrived in Dallas for the College Football Playoff semifinal at the Cotton Bowl on Jan. 8, 2025.

In a stunning development, it appears that Jim Knowles, the highly-regarded defensive coordinator for Ohio State, is in talks with Oklahoma about taking over the same role for the Sooners. This news comes just days after Oklahoma fired defensive coordinator Brent Venables and amid a national search for his replacement.  

Knowles, a former Oklahoma State defensive coordinator, has been instrumental in building Ohio State’s elite defense, which is widely considered to be one of the best in the country. His potential move to Oklahoma would be a major coup for the Sooners, who are looking to rebuild their defense after a disappointing season.  

If Knowles were to leave Ohio State, it would be a huge loss for the Buckeyes. He’s a talented coach with a proven track record, and he’s been a key part of their success in recent years. However, it’s also understandable why he might be interested in the Oklahoma job. He’s a native Oklahoman, and he has strong ties to the state. He also has the opportunity to build a defense from scratch and potentially lead the Sooners back to national prominence.

It’s still early in the process, and there’s no guarantee that Knowles will ultimately take the job. But the fact that he’s even in talks with Oklahoma is a major development, and it’s a clear indication that the Sooners are serious about making a splash in the coaching market.