Jim Knowles returning to Oklahoma would certainly shake things up – and not just on the gridiron. Knowles, who made quite the impact during his tenure at Oklahoma State as the defensive guru, has since taken his talents to Ohio State. There, he’s left his mark by transforming the team’s defense, helping secure a national championship along the way. Knowles is not just a coach; he’s a dynamic personality, always ready with a witty remark and genuinely insightful perspectives that make him a joy to cover.
But what if he were to head back to Oklahoma? The question looms larger each time you consider the price tag that would likely accompany such a move. Under Brent Venables, snagging Knowles would mean landing the best defensive coordinator college football currently has to offer. Ohio State’s defense, thanks to Knowles, has evolved into a force to be reckoned with over his three seasons, elevating the Buckeyes to the national title.
However, hiring Knowles wouldn’t come cheap. Think north of $3 million, maybe even touching $4 million. While he drew a respectable $2.2 million as a base salary at Ohio State, bonuses from their championship run pushed his annual earnings close to $3 million. That’s a hefty sum and one that he surely expects wherever he goes next.
The burning question remains: Is this a move Oklahoma should even entertain? In today’s era of the transfer portal and name, image, and likeness deals, every financial decision faces intense scrutiny. Huge salaries for head coaches are now the norm, with assistants earning seven figures not far behind.
Yet, a $4 million assistant salary is uncharted territory. To put it in perspective, LSU’s Blake Baker set a record last season with a $2.5 million paycheck as a defensive coordinator. For context, even if OU were to jump that hurdle, their overall athletic revenue was around $177 million, putting them in the top ranks nationally but still trailing behind juggernauts like Ohio State, which topped the list.
A leap in salary for Knowles would mean OU’s financial layout for their football assistant coaches would skyrocket from $7.1 million up to nearly $10.3 million – a significant investment that requires careful consideration.
Any potential reunion with Knowles would undeniably excite fans and media alike. His ability to combine humor with deep, tactical insights – like his memorable breakdown of a pivotal goal-line stand against Texas – makes him a compelling presence. But would his potential salary demands, and the subsequent financial balancing act for the Sooners, ultimately be worth it?
No one questions that Knowles could shine in Norman. The uncertainty lies in whether Oklahoma should roll the dice on such a substantial commitment. It’s an intriguing dilemma for the Sooners as they weigh financial reality against the allure of bringing back a respected coaching maestro.
