COLUMBUS, Ohio — Ohio State football is doing its part to retain defensive coordinator Jim Knowles. The Buckeyes have made Knowles an offer that would make him the highest-paid defensive coordinator in college football, according to multiple reports.

Ohio State has made Jim Knowles a contract extension that would make him the highest-paid defensive coordinator.

Ohio State cornerback Davison Igbinosun will remain in school for his senior season, providing the Buckeyes with at least three returning starters from their top-ranked defense. Igbinosun revealed his plans Friday, which was the deadline for the Buckeyes' juniors to declare for the NFL draft.

Faced with a third-and-11, Ohio State QB Will Howard threw a deep ball to WR Jeremiah Smith, who came down with the rainbow pass for a 56-yard completion, putting the Buckeyes at the Irish 9-yard line at the two-minute warning. The drive ended with a 33-yard field goal from Jayden Fielding .

Let's take a look back at Sports Illustrated's best images and coverage from the Buckeyes' championship night.