Ohio State’s defensive coordinator, Jim Knowles, is known for his meticulous approach to stopping high-powered offenses, and one of his most pressing challenges this season is preparing his defense for Tennessee’s high-speed, up-tempo attack. Under head coach Josh Heupel, Tennessee has built an offense that stresses defenses with its quick tempo, explosive passing game, and ability to score in bunches. In his interviews and discussions, Knowles has emphasized the importance of strategic planning and mental toughness when facing such a dynamic opponent
Tennessee’s offensive scheme, led by quarterback Joe Milton and wide receiver sensations like Squirrel White, is predicated on speed. The Vols use an up-tempo style to keep defenses on their heels, forcing them to play at a breakneck pace. Jim Knowles, who joined Ohio State in 2022 after a successful stint at Oklahoma State, understands the challenges such an offense presents. Tennessee’s speed, combined with their ability to stretch defenses vertically and horizontally, puts immense pressure on defensive coordinators to adjust in real time.
For Knowles, dealing with an up-tempo offense isn’t just about preparing his players physically but also mentally. “You have to make sure your players are disciplined and stay calm, even when the tempo is fast and you don’t have time to adjust between plays,” he explained. “The defense needs to be able to read and react to the offense quickly while maintaining their structure. If they lose their composure, the speed of the offense can break them down.”
Knowles also noted that Tennessee’s offense isn’t just fast—it’s effective at mixing up its attack, forcing defenders to stay alert to a variety of looks. The quick tempo means defenders must be in constant communication, ensuring they align properly and stay in sync despite the constant barrage of plays. “Tennessee’s offense is tough because it never allows you to rest. You have to be disciplined with your responsibilities, stay in your lanes, and anticipate where the ball is going,” Knowles added.
The Ohio State defense, under Knowles’ guidance, has been solid in 2024, but the matchups against fast offenses like Tennessee’s will test its depth and versatility. While Knowles prepares his unit for the tempo, he also emphasizes the importance of not allowing big plays to break the game open. Tennessee’s offense thrives on explosive moments, and Knowles’ defensive game plan will focus on limiting those opportunities while keeping the game in front of the
In addition to analyzing Tennessee’s offense, Knowles has recently reflected on his team’s tough 2023 loss to Michigan—a defeat that ended Ohio State’s hopes of making the College Football Playoff and left many fans questioning the defense’s performance. But amidst the pain of that loss, Knowles had a personal reflection that he described as a “God moment.”
In an emotional interview, Knowles shared that the Michigan loss, while tough, helped him gain perspective. “In the moment, it was devastating. But later, I had this feeling, a moment where I felt God was speaking to me,” Knowles said. “It was a reminder that football, as much as it means to us, isn’t everything. We all have bigger purposes, and sometimes, the toughest losses can be the moments where we grow the most—not just as football players, but as men.”
For Knowles, this was more than just a post-game reflection. It was a lesson in resilience and humility. The loss to Michigan was a tough pill to swallow, especially considering the high expectations surrounding Ohio State’s defense. But for Knowles, the experience of facing adversity allowed him to grow as a coach and as a person. “That loss was a turning point for me,” he explained. “It brought me closer to my faith, reminded me of the bigger picture, and helped me realize that setbacks are just opportunities to learn and improve.”
Knowles’ perspective on the loss to Michigan has had a profound impact on his approach to the 2024 season. His players have noticed his renewed sense of purpose and his ability to remain calm and focused under pressure. While football is a high-stakes game, Knowles has reminded them that success and failure are part of a much larger journey
Jim Knowles’ ability to analyze and adapt to Tennessee’s up-tempo offense while reflecting on personal growth from past disappointments speaks to his maturity as both a coach and an individual. As Ohio State prepares for another challenging season, including a potential matchup with Tennessee, Knowles’ focus on discipline, mental toughness, and faith will undoubtedly influence his defense’s preparation. Whether facing the speed of Tennessee’s offense or dealing with the emotional aftermath of a tough loss, Knowles’ leadership continues to guide Ohio State’s defense toward excellence. His growth as a coach, both tactically and personally, is a testament to the power of reflection, faith, and the relentless pursuit of improvement.