Ohio State defensive coordinator Jim Knowles grew up a Michigan State fan, but he’s found a new loyalty in Columbus. Knowles, who joined the Buckeyes’ staff in January, has a personal connection to Michigan State that fuels his motivation for the upcoming game. Knowles’ father, Jim Knowles Sr., played football for the Spartans in the late 1960s. Knowles Sr. passed away in 2018, but his son has kept a photo of him in his office at the Woody Hayes Athletic Center. Knowles has also shared stories of his father’s time at Michigan State with his Ohio State players. The Buckeyes and Spartans face off on Oct. 23 in East Lansing.