Oklahoma is reportedly willing to offer Ryan Day’s top assistant, defensive coordinator Jim Knowles, a big-money deal for the Sooners’ vacated job. Zac Alley’s departure to West Virginia created the need but landing Knowles would make it worth it for Sooners fans. As Footballscoop’s Zach Barnett and John Brice report OU may not have the biggest offer for Knowles yet, though.
According to reports, Oklahoma is prepared to make a high-profile offer to Jim Knowles, Ryan Day’s top defensive coordinator, in exchange for the Sooners’ open position. The need was caused by Zac Alley’s move to West Virginia, but Sooners supporters would find it worthwhile to get Knowles.
However, according to Zach Barnett and John Brice of Footballscoop, OU might not have made the highest offer for Knowles just yet.
“Oklahoma has remained quietly optimistic about its chances of hiring the man who created the top scoring defense, yards per play, and total in the country. FootballScoop was informed by industry insiders that the Sooners are willing to pay up to $3 million annually. FootballScoop was informed by a number of sources that Penn State has made Knowles an offer of $3.2 million annually. After losing Al Golden to the NFL, Notre Dame has expressed interest, according to sources who spoke to FootballScoop, Barnett and Brice reported.
Having said that, Oklahoma might be willing to pay a premium for Knowles.
According to Barnett and Brice, “Oklahoma is willing to overspend, lest pay the cost of purchasing a brand new coaching staff and roster after the 2025 season.”
The Ohio State brain trust seems certain that Knowles will stay with the Buckeyes after they won the national championship.
According to sources who spoke to FootballScoop on Thursday morning, Ohio State knew Knowles would receive offers, but the defending champions were certain they would keep him. As of this writing, that confidence is still present, according to Barnett and Brice.
This is a dynamic scenario. As Knowles tries to build on his momentum from the CFP triumph, expect updates in the coming days.
Hughes, Andrew
Currently working as the site expert for Fly War Eagle and Glory Colorado, Andrew is a freelance journalist from Auburn, Alabama. Bleacher Report, Heavy Sports, and The Miami Herald have all published his work. Andrew has been a sports fan since 1993 and earned a degree in print media from Brooklyn College in 2017. He has reported on the American Century Championship and the University of Alabama’s pro day.
