How Jim Knowles Has 'Adapted' Ohio State Buckeyes Into Elite Defense

Ohio State Buckeyes defensive coordinator Jim Knowles explained how he has turned his defense into an elite-level unit

The Ohio State Buckeyes might have the best defense in the Big Ten, and maybe even in the entire country.

In fact, through 10 games, No. 4 in total defense, No. 22 in rush defense, and No. 2 in pass defense - all substantial improvements from a year ago.

And they have managed to do so, despite battling injuries throughout the year to some of their top players. 

So how have the Buckeyes managed to take such a giant leap forward into a truly elite defense? According to defensive coordinator Jim Knowles, it is because they have been able to adapt.

"I've adapted to the talent, the situation, the program," Knowles said Tuesday. "I'm doing what is in the best interest of the defense and the team to win games and produce a top-five defense. I've said it from the beginning, 'When you're at Ohio State, you should have a top-five defense."

The Buckeyes have been truly elite in 2023, particularly where it matters most - keeping opponents out of the end zone. 

And they have done so in large part by staying true to the scheme, and keeping it simple, rather than going after the big play.

"I don't know how good we were (in previous years). It was flashy," Knowles said. "I feel like it is what it is. We need to keep working on those things that are working for us. Make it easy. Avoid the temptation to go after the flashy play and expose yourself somewhere else."

Ohio State has also managed to minimize the damage from explosive plays this season, which was a struggle at times in past years.

They have been especially strong in their biggest games as well, most notably against Notre Dame, Penn State, and Wisconsin, where they held those three opponents to an average of just 12 points per contest.

"Gearing toward the 'matchup games,' and we've had a couple of them already, where we were not successful last year, mainly because of explosive plays," Knowles said. "Through a lot of study and a lot of planning, you're seeing the benefit of that now."

The Buckeyes will hope to keep up their elite defensive effort through the season's final two games, culminating in their Nov. 25 matchup with the Michigan Wolverines. 

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