Jim Knowles gave ESPN candid comments about "grueling" atmosphere in Columbus, where fan pressure and internal dynamics create a pressure cooker even championship coaches struggle to endure.

Penn State’s secondary is replacing a pair of talented safeties (Jaylen Reed, Kevin Winston Jr.) and two corners (Jalen Kimber, Cam Miler) who were part of the Lions’ 2024 rotations. But there is plenty of returning talent at both positions.

STATE COLLEGE, Pa. -- On Jan. 22, two days after the 2024 season had officially ended with Ohio State beating Notre Dame to win the College Football Playoff national championship, Penn State coach James Franklin was in Philadelphia recruiting. His cellphone rang.