Tennessee Pursues Penn State’s Knowles for Defensive Coordinator Role
Tennessee is actively pursuing Jim Knowles, currently with Penn State, for the role of defensive coordinator. Sources indicate a deal may be finalized soon. Knowles joined Penn State from Ohio State, where he played a significant role in their national championship success.
Tennessee’s Coaching Changes
Tennessee recently dismissed its defensive coordinator, Tim Banks, after five seasons with the program. The decision came following a disappointing defensive performance this season.
Tim Banks’ Tenure
- Banks was a finalist for the Broyles Award last year.
- He had a contract extending through 2027.
- This season, Tennessee’s defense fell to 113th nationally against the pass.
- The team allowed 33 or more points in seven games, including a loss to Vanderbilt.
Jim Knowles at Penn State
Jim Knowles, 60, served as Penn State’s defensive coordinator during his first season. However, he will not continue under new head coach Matt Campbell.
Knowles’ Coaching Background
- Previously, he was defensive coordinator at Oklahoma State, where he was a finalist for the Broyles Award in 2021.
- His defense at Ohio State in 2024 led the country in fewest points and yards allowed.
- This season, Penn State ranks 34th in yards allowed and 37th in points allowed.
- Knowles has also coached at Duke and Western Michigan and was head coach at Cornell from 2004 to 2009.
As Tennessee embarks on this search for a new defensive leader, the addition of Knowles could significantly impact their defensive strategy moving forward.
