Ohio State defensive coordinator Jim Knowles was asked about rumors connecting him to an opening with Oklahoma football. Here's what he said.

The Buckeyes defensive coordinator is focused on beating Notre Dame for the national championship, but he's long been rumored to be on Brent Venables' wish list

Speaking at media day ahead of the College Football Playoff national championship game on Saturday, Knowles sidestepped the question. Knowles was the third-highest paid assistant in college football in 2024, earning $2.2 million. He remains under contract through 2026. Oklahoma paid Alley $850,000.

Jim Knowles has reshaped the Ohio State defense in his three years in Columbus, with 2024 marking the culmination. The Buckeyes rank No. 1 in team defense, allowing 251.1 yards and just 12.2 points. After forcing a goal-line stand in the Cotton Bowl,

Ohio State defensive coordinator Jim Knowles responded Saturday during to the rumors linking him to OU's opening.

Ohio State defensive coordinator Jim Knowles is now in his third season leading the Buckeyes defense. The group has gotten better every year under Knowles, and Ohio State currently has the No. 1 defense in the country entering the national championship game against Notre Dame.

After replacing Mississippi State head coach Jeff Lebby as OC, Littrell was fired in October, when Finley was promoted to play-caller on an interim basis, as was Johns to coach the QBs. Finley remains on staff to coach the tight ends, but Johns is now coaching quarterbacks at Oklahoma State.

So for the last few weeks, the Sooners have been without a defensive coordinator and an assistant general manager, yet have landed some big-time defensive recruits. However, even