The Buckeyes defensive coordinator is focused on beating Notre Dame for the national championship, but he's long been rumored to be on Brent Venables' wish list

Ohio State defensive coordinator Jim Knowles responded Saturday during to the rumors linking him to OU's opening.

Ohio State defensive coordinator Jim Knowles is now in his third season leading the Buckeyes defense. The group has gotten better every year under Knowles, and Ohio State currently has the No. 1 defense in the country entering the national championship game against Notre Dame.

Ohio State defensive coordinator Jim Knowles was asked about rumors connecting him to an opening with Oklahoma football. Here's what he said.

Ohio State DC Jim Knowles was dismissive of job offer rumors ahead of College Football Playoff National Championship Game vs. Notre Dame

Speaking at media day ahead of the College Football Playoff national championship game on Saturday, Knowles sidestepped the question. Knowles was the third-highest paid assistant in college football in 2024, earning $2.2 million. He remains under contract through 2026. Oklahoma paid Alley $850,000.

Ohio State’s run to the National Championship has been a special one and one more win would cap off the Buckeyes’ first title in a decade. The Buckeyes have gotten a strong showing from both the offense and defense throughout the playoff.