Following the departure of Jim Knowles, the Ohio State Buckeyes have three possible DC fits.The No. 1 Candidate will surprise you…

**Ohio State Buckeyes Eye Three Potential Candidates to Replace Jim Knowles as Defensive Coordinator – The No. 1 Candidate May Surprise You**

COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Ohio State Buckeyes find themselves in search of a new defensive coordinator following the departure of Jim Knowles, who stepped down after two seasons at the helm of the defense. With spring practices looming, the pressure is on head coach Ryan Day and the Buckeyes’ administration to find a strong candidate who can lead the defense back to national championship contention. Reports suggest three potential candidates, and the frontrunner might not be who you expect.

### **1. Glenn Schumann – The Rising Star**
Currently the co-defensive coordinator at Georgia, Glenn Schumann has earned a reputation as one of the top defensive minds in college football. Schumann has been a key architect behind Georgia’s dominant defense, which helped secure back-to-back national championships in 2021 and 2022. Known for his ability to develop elite linebackers and implement aggressive schemes, Schumann could bring fresh energy and a championship pedigree to Columbus. While landing Schumann would be a bold move, prying him away from Kirby Smart’s program will not be easy.

### **2. Jim Leonhard – The Proven Commodity**
Jim Leonhard, the former Wisconsin defensive coordinator and interim head coach, is another name generating buzz. Widely regarded as a defensive mastermind, Leonhard has consistently delivered top-tier defenses in the Big Ten. His units have been known for their discipline, physicality, and knack for creating turnovers. After parting ways with Wisconsin following the 2022 season, Leonhard is currently a free agent, making him an attractive option for the Buckeyes. His Big Ten experience and ability to quickly adapt could make him an ideal fit for Ohio State.

### **3. Marcus Freeman – The Surprise Candidate**
Perhaps the most surprising name on the list is Marcus Freeman, the current head coach at Notre Dame and a former Ohio State linebacker. Though Freeman is entrenched in his role in South Bend, his ties to Ohio State and the opportunity to return to his alma mater could intrigue him. Freeman has demonstrated his defensive acumen throughout his coaching career, but it remains unclear if he would consider stepping away from a head coaching position for a coordinator role.

### **What’s Next for Ohio State?**
The Buckeyes are expected to move quickly in their search to ensure continuity heading into the 2024 season. With a talented roster and high expectations, the new defensive coordinator will need to deliver results immediately.

While Schumann and Leonhard bring proven resumes, Freeman’s potential return to Columbus would undoubtedly make headlines. Regardless of the final choice, Ohio State’s next defensive coordinator will face the challenge of re-establishing a dominant defense worthy of the program’s championship aspirations.