Tennessee hires Jim Knowles as defensive coordinator to improve defense

Tennessee has appointed Jim Knowles as its new defensive coordinator, aiming to revitalize a struggling defense that ranked among the lowest in the SEC last season. Head coach Josh Heupel expressed optimism about Knowles' potential for immediate impact, referencing his previous success at Ohio State. However, historical data suggests that Knowles typically takes a year or two to establish significant improvements, with his prior stops showing only one season of decreased points allowed per game in Year 1. As the Vols prepare for the upcoming season, they hope for a noticeable defensive turnaround after allowing 28.8 points per game in 2025. Heupel has emphasized that Knowles’ staff already shares familiarity with his coaching style, which he sees as a key factor for quick progress.

• 1:06 PMCBS Sports — Josh Heupel expects quick impact from Jim Knowles as Tennessee DC; past stops tell a different story