Penn State introduces O'Brien as new coach

STATE COLLEGE, Pa. – For the first time since 1966, Penn State introduced a new head football coach, with Bill O'Brien moving immediately to bring together former players and fans upset about the selection process and the hiring of a man with no ties to the football program.

O'Brien, 42, who will remain the offensive coordinator of the New England Patriots through the NFL playoffs, said he was committed to build on the foundation set by former head coach Joe Paterno.

"There's not enough words to say how he won on the field and, off the field, how he graduated student athletes," O'Brien said. "I can't wait to meet him."

Paterno was fired on Nov. 9 in the wake of the child sexual abuse scandal following the indictment of former assistant coach Jerry Sandusky.

"My responsibility is to make sure we show character, respect and integrity in everything we do," O'Brien said. "That includes the coach staff, the players and everyone involved in our football program. There is so much pride in the Penn State football program and we will never take that for granted."

O'Brien said he has sent a letter to former players encouraging them to come together and support the football program going forward. Players such as linebackers Lavar Arrington and Brandon Short were critical of the length and secretiveness of the selection process, and felt interim head coach Tom Bradley should have been retained.

O'Brien said he understands the players have their opinions but noted that they all are loyal to the university and "can find more common interests and goals than not" in supporting the team.

Acting athletic director Dave Joyner, chairman of the search committee and the target of criticism that he did not do a good job communicating with former players, said he spoke with the alumni constantly.

O'Brien also said that long-time Penn State assistant Larry Johnson, the long-time defensive line coach who became co-defensive coordinator after Bradley was elevated to head coach, will remain on the staff. He said he hoped to have the remainder of the staff named in the next few days.

O'Brien agreed to a five-year contract at a base salary of $950,000 per year with a 5 percent increase annually. He also will receive additional salary of $1 million per year for radio and television, and $350,000 in a contract with Nike. The contract also includes performance bonuses of up to $200,000 each year.