The outward reaction from former Penn State players and alumni to the hiring of Bill O'Brien has not been good. O'Brien, introduced Saturday morning as the man taking over the embattled program stained by the Jerry Sandusky child rape scandal, said his hiring was "unbelievable." Some in the Penn State community felt the same way.And Patriots head coach Bill Belichick, in a statement that seemed designed to meet those criticisms, had this to say, "Over the course of his long coaching career, Bill OBrien has met every personal and professional challenge head on with great passion and competitiveness."I expect Bill to draw on his deep background in college football and the NFL to continue attracting and developing top players."For five years, Bills outstanding work with our quarterbacks and entire offense has led to record-setting performances. His presence and command before our team has grown into that of a inspirational leader. This is a great match between a storied program and a old-school football coach. Bill will be up to the task and I couldnt be happier for him, Colleen and the OBrien family."A few interesting takeaways from that. 1) Belichick giving a nod to his ability to recruit and develop. 2) His praise of O'Brien as a leader, important as he steps in Joe Paterno's spot. 3) The uncharacteristic noting of "record-setting performances". 4) Describing O'Brien as an "old-school football coach" knowing that would be an embraceable image for Penn State.
Stay in the game with the latest updates on your beloved Boston sports teams! Sign up here for our All Access Daily newsletter.