Jim Knowles addresses OSU’s defensive prep for Playoff, says Buckeyes addressed issues from Michigan loss

Jim Knowles was brought in to fix Ohio State’s defense in 2022. Unfortunately, that all fell about in The Game.

Knowles’ defense gave up multiple explosive plays in the loss to Michigan in a variety of ways. First, JJ McCarthy connected on some huge deep throws against the defense, then it was the ground game shredding the Buckeyes late in the fourth quarter.

On Wednesday, Knowles met with the media heading into the College Football Playoff matchup with Georgia. With around a month to prepare, Knowles says the unit has identified and addressed the issues that cropped up in the loss to Michigan.

Jim Knowles on what preparation for the CFP has looked like for the Ohio State defense:

“We certainly know the last game is not how we wanted to go out. There were issues, and we addressed them… We’re gonna have a great plan (for UGA) and allow (the defense) to play fast.”

— Chase Brown (@chaseabrown__) December 28, 2022

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Knowles also shouldered responsibility while acknowledging it’s his job to get the players ready for the task ahead. It’s also up to Knowles to get the unit feeling comfortable for the matchup with their preparation.

Defensive coordinator Jim Knowles outlined his responsibilities in simple terms ahead of his first playoff game at Ohio State.

“My job is to prepare these guys as best I can for the challenge that awaits them.”#GoBucks #CFAPeachBowl

— Caleb Spinner (@CalebSpinner) December 28, 2022

Defensive coordinator Jim Knowles said the #Buckeyes have added and refined practice methods during bowl week ahead of playing No. 1 Georgia on Saturday.

“In general, you want the players to feel comfortable with how you prepare.”

— Lantern Sports (@LanternSports) December 28, 2022

We’ll see if Knowles has turned things around and if the defense is up for the challenge on Saturday.

Paul Harvey

Paul is a lifelong fan and student of all things college football. He has been covering college football since 2017 and the B1G since 2018.