DEAL ACCEPTED: Penn State hired Former NFL MVP ‘the best DC in college football’ in Jim Knowles…

As Penn State continues to build a competitive football program, a recent endorsement from a former NFL MVP has added to the excitement surrounding their defensive coordinator, Jim Knowles. Known for his success at Oklahoma State, Knowles has become a highly regarded figure in college football, and former NFL MVP and current analyst, Lamar Jackson, couldn’t agree more.

In an interview on ESPN, Jackson was vocal about his admiration for Knowles, calling him “the best defensive coordinator in college football” after the Nittany Lions made the move to hire him. The praise comes as little surprise to those who’ve followed Knowles’ career closely, as he has earned a reputation for turning around defenses and crafting schemes that are both innovative and effective.

Knowles, who took over the defensive coordinator role at Penn State in 2024, spent the previous several seasons at Oklahoma State, where his defensive units consistently ranked among the best in the Big 12. His defenses were known for their aggressive play, their ability to pressure quarterbacks, and their proficiency in creating turnovers—traits that have made him a hot commodity in the coaching world.

During his tenure with the Cowboys, Knowles helped Oklahoma State to a Big 12 Championship game appearance in 2021 and consistently fielded some of the best defenses in the conference. His success didn’t go unnoticed, and by the time he was offered the job at Penn State, Knowles had built a reputation as one of the brightest minds in college football when it comes to defensive strategy.

For Penn State, the move to bring in Knowles represents a significant step forward as the program looks to return to national prominence. The Nittany Lions have long been known for their strong defense, and Knowles’ arrival is seen as a way to elevate the unit even further, especially in a Big Ten that boasts powerful offenses.

What makes Knowles particularly exciting for Penn State fans is his ability to adapt and evolve. Whether it’s his use of multiple defensive fronts, his emphasis on attacking the quarterback, or his focus on creating turnovers, Knowles’ approach is anything but static. Jackson’s endorsement only solidifies the belief that the Nittany Lions are in capable hands as they look to challenge for championships in the near future.

In a conference as competitive as the Big Ten, having a defensive mind like Knowles can make all the difference. Penn State’s hiring of Jim Knowles could prove to be one of the most significant coaching decisions of the year, and the buzz around the program is growing.

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