It's not like this is really surprising at this point, we've been talking about this for a while, but just in case you're just checking in, Penn State University has now officially announced their hire of former New England Patriots offensive coordinator Bill O'Brien as the new head football coach. This is the first time since 1965 that the university has hired a new head coach as Joe Paterno was their last hire.
From Penn State's official athletic website:
"The Penn State football program has a great legacy and has contributed enormously to our University community," said Rodney A. Erickson, president of Penn State University. "A program of this caliber requires a special kind of leader - a leader who will embrace that legacy and maintain the University's commitment to excellence on the field and in the classroom. We have that leader in Coach O'Brien, and I look forward to working with him in his new role."
"We have found the man to take Penn State football forward," said Dave Joyner, Penn State acting director of athletics. "Needless to say, we have been looking for someone with some very special qualities, beginning with a heart that beats to the values and vision of Penn State University and our Penn State football legacy and tradition. That was our starting point, and Coach O'Brien exemplifies those traits that Penn Staters hold so highly. In addition to his model characteristics as a man and a teacher, he's all about producing winners, and doing so the right way. He will embrace tradition, demand excellence and pursue Success with Honor in every phase of our program."
O'Brien officially introduced himself as the new head coach Friday night and said that he was thrilled to take over the storied program and that he will make sure that he, the coaches and players will represent the university and its fans well.
"I am thrilled to be the head coach of the Penn State football program," stated O'Brien. "I cannot tell you how excited I am to get started, meet the team, meet the football alumni and meet all of the people that make this University so special. As head coach of this special football program, it is my responsibility to ensure that this program represents the highest level of character, respect and integrity in everything we do. That includes my coaching staff, our players and everyone involved in the football program. There is tremendous pride in Penn State football and will never, ever take that for granted."
O'Brien has been with the Patriots since 2007 when he started as an offensive assistant and worked his way up to offensive coordinator. He helped lead Tom Brady and the Patriots offense to the No. 2 ranking and the top seed in the AFC.