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Penn State defensive coordinator Jim Knowles meets the media in first press conference

Headshot 5x7 reduced qualityby:Thomas Frank Carr•about 9 hours•

ThomasFrankCarr

The Penn State Nittany Lions football team officially introduced new defensive coordiantor Jim Knowles to the media on Tuesday, Feb, 4. The newest defensive leader under head coach James Franklin, addressed the assembled reporters in Pegula Ice Arena due to the construction at Beaver Stadium. Hear his full comments in the article below or on the Blue White Illustrated YouTube Channel.

Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube Channel so you don’t miss any offseason content and comments from the Nittany Lions. Franklin and the 2024 Penn State freshman class will speak with the media later this month, and we’ll have extensive coverage for you on our channel and at Blue White Illustrated.

Knowles sets homecoming tone for his arrival at Penn State

Since his hiring, Knowles has emphasized his Pennsylvania roots as a north Philadelphia native who grew up watching Penn State Football weekly.

“You know, you reach a point in your career where you’re given opportunities based on past performance. And like I said, Penn State, for me, growing up in inner city, Philly was, was the epitome of college football. You know, when I was a kid, I was never talented enough to make it to Penn State as a player, but given the opportunity to do it now as a coach, it’s really where I want to be to continue my career and bring any expertise that I can to the organization,” Knowles said

Knowles led one of, if not the best, defense in college football last season. The Buckeyes were first in total defense, allowing only 254 yards per game during its 16-game run to a national championship. The Buckeyes were also in the top five in:

  • 3rd in sacks (3.31 per game)
  • 2nd in Red zone defense (60% conversion percentage)
  • 1st in scoring defense (12.9 points per game)

Lions pounce at the opportunity to hire Knowles

Penn State hired Knowles away from the Buckeyes less than a week after the team’s College Football National Championship win over Notre Dame on Jan 20. Knowles spent three seasons in Columbus, improving his defensive output each season as defensive coordinator. Penn State officially announced the hire on Jan. 27.

“Join me in welcoming Jim Knowles back to his home in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania as the Defensive Coordinator of Penn State Football,” said Franklin. “He’s a strong strategist and excellent defensive mind. He reflects the core values our culture of excellence is built upon. We look forward to having Jim and his family join us in Happy Valley,” Franklin said as part of the official university statement.

Knowles will have a little over a month to get to know his new players. Spring football starts in mid-March, with spring break starting on Mar. 8 and concluding on Mar. 15.

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