New Penn State defensive coordinator Jim Knowles came under scrutiny from former Ohio State linebacker Bobby Carpenter for the former Buckeyes defensive coordinator’s questionable timing of his contract extension negotiations.
Bobby Carpenter Calls Out Jim Knowles for Poor Timing on Ohio State Deal
Talking on “The Bobby Carpenter Show,” the host clearly spoke his mind regarding Ohio State’s then-defensive coordinator’s judgment on the negotiation of a new contract. Knowles was believed to have wanted a discussion on a contract extension before Ohio State’s College Football Playoff championship game against Notre Dame.
.@Bcarp3 isn’t a fan of how Jim Knowles handled his extension talks with Ohio State — especially with the National Championship looming.
“You don’t hear Tom Brady re-negotiating his deal before the Super Bowl.”
Presented by https://t.co/dvVQMhKmLQ #LakeSpur pic.twitter.com/ZrUfuY6syJ
— Bobby Carpenter Show (@BobbyCarpShow) May 10, 2025
Questioning Knowles’ professionalism at a critical time in the Buckeyes’ season, Carpenter stated: “You’re getting ready to play a national championship. You don’t hear Tom Brady renegotiating his deal before the Super Bowl.” He added: “And that week, we shredded Nico Iamaleava at Tennessee for trying to renegotiate his deal right before the playoff, and then again before the spring game.”
Carpenter drew a parallel to Knowles’ departure from Oklahoma State as the Cowboys’ defensive coordinator, where he didn’t receive a contract extension before the end of the season. He then left to join Ohio State in December 2021. Knowles’ defense at Oklahoma State led the FBS in sacks and the Big 12 additionally in tackles for loss, total defense, and rushing defense.
Sports Illustrated’s James Parks reported that Knowles had suggested he may not have sought another role had the Buckeyes offered him an extension before the national championship game. Knowles apparently “hoped the school would settle his situation before winning the national title, not after.”
The departure of their former defensive coordinator is a big blow for the Buckeyes. Knowles had put together the nation’s top-ranked defense in terms of yards allowed (254.6 per game) and points allowed (12.9 per game). Ohio State’s defense excelled in the College Football Playoff, overwhelming Oregon, Tennessee, and Texas before stifling Notre Dame en route to their national championship win.
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Knowles agreed to join Big Ten rivals Penn State just a week after winning the national championship with the Buckeyes, signing a reported $3.1 million contract to replace Clemson-bound Tom Allen. Ohio State have since hired former New England Patriots defensive coordinator Matt Patricia to replace Knowles.
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