Jim Knowles Takes Over Tennessee Defense After Vols’ 2025 Collapse

Tennessee has hired Jim Knowles as its new defensive coordinator. The move comes after a rough 2025 season that saw the Volunteers field one of the worst defenses in the SEC. The team confirmed the hire this week in reports carried by CBS Sports, ESPN, and WVLT. Knowles will replace Tim Banks, who was dismissed after the unit gave up 28.8 points per game. The hire gives Tennessee an experienced leader as it looks to rebuild fast.The change marks a major shift for head coach Josh Heupel. Tennessee fell from playoff form in 2024 to defensive crisis in 2025. The team struggled in coverage and failed to stop big plays. The collapse forced the program to act before the 2026 season arrives.

Jim Knowles Brings National Title Experience to Tennessee

Knowles enters Knoxville with a strong track record. According to Reuters and ESPN reports, he built Ohio State’s 2024 defense into the best in the nation. That group allowed only 12.9 points and 254.6 yards per game. It helped Ohio State win the national championship.Knowles has worked in many styles and systems. He used hybrid fronts at Oklahoma State. He used more four‑man fronts at Ohio State. He adjusted to fit player strengths. His past stops include Penn State, Duke, and a head coaching stint at Cornell. He also coached in the SEC once before, at Ole Miss in 2003.Tennessee hopes that experience will pay off. The Vols’ pass defense ranked 115th in the nation in 2025. The group gave up 248.8 yards per game. Seven opponents scored at least 33 points. Those numbers made a change nearly certain.

What Tennessee Must Fix Under Jim Knowles

The Volunteers face many problems on defense. They lack depth at linebacker and on the defensive line. Coverage remains a major concern. The roster also includes several young players who need fast development.Knowles will evaluate the entire unit once the season ends. For the bowl game, linebackers coach William Inge will serve as interim coordinator. The long‑term rebuild begins in 2026. Knowles will install a system that demands study, discipline, and speed.Recruiting will play a major role. Tennessee must add talent through high school signings and the transfer portal. Knowles has a history of improving players year by year. But he also needs fresh starters who fit his aggressive style.

Why This Hire Matters for Tennessee’s Future

The SEC remains a defense‑driven league. Programs that fall behind rarely stay competitive. Tennessee knows it must fix its defensive identity to keep pace. The hire signals urgency from Heupel and his staff.Knowles will have control of the defense. That may give him freedom he lacked at past stops. His goal is clear. Turn an unsteady unit into one that can win games again. The move shows Tennessee’s desire to return to national relevance.

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Tennessee now turns to Jim Knowles to rebuild a broken defense. His experience and past success offer a path forward. The Volunteers hope his arrival marks the start of a stronger defensive future.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What will Jim Knowles do at Tennessee?

He will run the defense and install a new system. He will review the roster and make changes as needed. He will also help recruit new talent.

Q2: Why did Tennessee hire him?

The defense struggled badly in 2025. Knowles has a strong record of turning units around. His work at Ohio State and Penn State made him a top target.

Q3: How good was Ohio State’s defense under Knowles?

It ranked first in the nation in scoring and yardage in 2024. It allowed only 12.9 points per game. It helped lead the team to a national title.

Q4: What problems must Tennessee fix first?

The pass defense needs major work. Depth on the line and at linebacker is thin. The team must also cut down on explosive plays allowed.

Q5: Will Knowles coach Tennessee in the bowl game?

No. William Inge will serve as interim coordinator. Knowles will start full duties after the season ends.