Former Ohio State defensive coordinator said in an address to Penn State players that the Nittany Lions were 'everything' to him growing up

Penn State has received plenty of praise over the past few weeks for retaining talent. Its latest move, hiring one of the nation's best defensive coordinators, has people buzzing.

Jim Knowles, Penn State's new defensive coordinator, brought his Penn State football history and some Philly ethos to his first meeting with the Nittany Lions. Knowles, whom Penn State hired away from Ohio State, introduced himself to the team this week, telling players and fellow coaches, "This is where I want to be."

Already boasting the largest salary among college football assistants, Knowles' contract allows him to hit astronomical numbers

Why is Jim Knowles a great fit to lead Penn State's defense? Get to know the former Ohio State assistant coach

Knowles will make Penn State's defense one of the best in the country, but his addition might help the offense too.

Penn State made a big-time hire by poaching Jim Knowles from Ohio State. Knowles was the defensive coordinator at Ohio State for the last three seasons before taking the same role at Penn State after Ohio State won this year's national title.