Penn State announced Monday it had hired Jim Knowles as its defensive coordinator. According to multiple reports, Knowles reached a three-year contract with an average annual salary of $3.1 million. Knowles is a Philadelphia native. In a statement, Knowles said he was "excited for this opportunity" to join the Nittany Lions' program.

As Ryan Day looks to hire his fourth defensive coordinator in seven seasons, here are potential candidates to replace Jim Knowles.

Nittany Lions coach James Franklin seeks to make a bold move, hiring the architect of the Buckeyes' championship defense.

Ohio State’s defensive coordinator is celebrating winning a national championship with a new contract — from one of their rivals.

Penn State has hired Jim Knowles as defensive coordinator after he helped Ohio State win the national championship, according to multiple reports. The Buckeyes had hoped to keep the 59-year-old Knowles, who also was pursued by Oklahoma and Notre Dame.

Answering your questions about Ohio State's national title run and what's next with Jim Knowles and a long list of seniors leaving.

So, would it be too much to ask new Penn State defensive coordinator Jim Knowles to be able to multi-task during his three years (minimum) in State College? I don’t see why not.

An Ohio State Buckeyes defender could not be more ready to get revenge on former defensive coordinator Jim Knowles.