In a shocking revelation, former Ohio State defensive coordinator Jim Knowles has pointed fingers at the Buckeyes’ athletic director as the primary reason for his departure, despite the team’s recent championship success.
During an explosive interview earlier this week, Knowles made it clear that his exit had little to do with the team’s performance or the players but was instead fueled by internal disagreements with the administration. “The championship was incredible, but behind the scenes, things weren’t as smooth as they seemed. The leadership at Ohio State made it difficult for me to continue,” he stated.
However, what truly caught the attention of fans was his praise for Penn State, a direct rival of Ohio State in the Big Ten. “Penn State means everything to me,” Knowles said, a remark many interpreted as a direct jab at his former team. Some even speculated that his comments were intended to ridicule Ohio State, adding fuel to the already intense rivalry between the two schools.
Reactions from Buckeye fans have been mixed, with many expressing disappointment over Knowles’ attitude. Social media has been flooded with messages ranging from frustration to outright anger. “He’s an ungrateful fellow,” wrote one fan on X (formerly Twitter). Others, however, acknowledged that internal conflicts within the administration could have played a role in his decision.
Ohio State has yet to officially respond to Knowles’ remarks, but sources within the program suggest that the athletic department is keen on moving forward and maintaining focus on the upcoming season.
As Knowles prepares for his next chapter, whether in coaching or elsewhere, one thing is certain—his departure from Ohio State will be remembered as one of the most controversial exits in recent college football history.
