Who Are the Underrated Defensive Coordinators in College Football Right Now?

While quarterbacks and flashy offenses dominate headlines every weekend, there are defensive coordinators behind that, shaping championship-caliber teams without much recognition. These are the minds dialing up timely blitzes, disguising coverages, and limiting explosive plays, all while usually staying out of the spotlight. In 2025, three defensive coordinators in particular stand out as underrated: Corey Hetherman at Miami, Pete Kwiatkowski at Texas, and Jim Knowles at Penn State. Their recent success is not about hype or headlines; it is about the results they are producing on the field. 

Corey Hetherman made his name at Minnesota in 2024, where he led one of the nation’s most complete defensive units. The Golden Gophers finished the season ranked ninth in points allowed, giving up just 16.9 points per game. They were fifth in total defense, twelfth against the run, and tied for ninth in passing yards allowed. Even more impressive, Hetherman’s defense forced twenty-two interceptions, one of the highest marks in the country. Now at Miami, he brings the same system and attention to detail to a roster with far more talent. Although his move has not received major national attention, Hetherman could quickly become one of the most impactful hires of the offseason. 

Then there is Pete Kwiatkowski, who has turned Texas into a defensive force. In 2024, the Longhorns led the nation in turnovers gained and allowed the fewest passing yards per game. They finished second in scoring defense and built a reputation for limiting big plays and dominating third-down situations. Kwiatkowski's unit was also one of the most disciplined in the country, consistently winning red zone battles. Despite this, most national conversations around Texas focused on its offense. What gets overlooked is how critical this defense has been in the Longhorns’ rise. His work earned him a spot as a finalist for the Broyles Award and recognition as FootballScope’s Defensive Coordinator of the Year, yet he remains outside of most fans' top coaching discussions. 

Jim Knowles, now at Penn State, is another name who often gets lost in the shuffle, despite building elite defenses. He helped Ohio State reach a top-ten defense during his time there, and in 2025, he is already making an impact with the Nittany Lions. Known for his aggressive, schematic approach, especially his use of disguised pressures, Knowles is respected by coaching peers but rarely mentioned by fans. His defenses consistently rank among the best in the nation in limiting explosive plays and forcing negative yardage. With Penn State’s fast, physical defense already showing signs of dominance, Knowles is ready to raise their ceiling even higher this season. Although outside of Big Ten circles, he is rarely seen as a household name, and that should change. 

Their names may not trend in online discussions, but their defenses are doing the talking. Corey Hetherman, Pete Kwiatkowski, and Jim Knowles are simply producing elite defensive football, and doing it behind the scenes. As the season continues, it is important to recognize the coordinators who are building the dominant units. The game is still about execution, and these three are proving that the best defense might just be underrated.