KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) - Tennessee has hired its next defensive coordinator.

Jim Knowles, who served as the defensive coordinator at Ohio State from 2021-24 and Penn State in 2025, will lead the Volunteer defense next season.

Knowles helped the Buckeyes to the 2024 national championship, coincidentally defeating Tennessee in the opening round of the playoff, 42-17.

The 60-year-old has also served as the defensive coordinator at Oklahoma State and Duke. He has head coaching experience at the FCS level, coaching Cornell from 2004-2009.

Tennessee marks his first SEC job in over 20 years. Knowles spent one season at Ole Miss, serving as linebackers coach in 2003.

While Penn State struggled in 2025, Knowles’ 2024 defense at Ohio State was historically great. The Buckeyes finished first na

See Full Page