Penn State’s new head football coach, Matt Campbell, has wasted little time putting his imprint on the program, making key staffing decisions that signal an immediate shift in direction for the Nittany Lions.
Within days of his introduction, Campbell confirmed that defensive coordinator Jim Knowles will not be retained, while interim head coach Terry Smith will remain with the program. The moves underscore that Campbell’s arrival represents a clear reset rather than a continuation of the previous staff structure.
Campbell officially took over the program earlier this week following a 54-day coaching search that concluded with his hiring. He arrives in Happy Valley after nearly a decade at Iowa State, where he built the Cyclones into a consistent Big 12 contender despite limited resources. At Penn State, Campbell inherits a program with greater expectations, deeper recruiting reach and a larger national profile.
Rather than dismantling the entire staff, Campbell opted for a selective approach. Smith, who served as interim head coach following James Franklin’s dismissal, will stay on staff and guide the team through its bowl preparation. Smith’s retention is viewed as a stabilizing move after a turbulent season, providing continuity for players while the program transitions into a new era.
The decision to part ways with Knowles, however, marks a more decisive philosophical shift. Knowles, a veteran defensive coordinator with experience at Oklahoma State and Ohio State, was widely respected for his résumé. His departure reflects Campbell’s intent to install his own defensive vision and assemble a staff aligned with his long-term approach to program building.
Source: atozsports