Penn State's O'Brien to keep at least one assistant

STATE COLLEGE, Pa. -- New Penn State coach Bill O'Brien said yesterday he would pull together his staff during the next two or three days, and that he would retain Larry Johnson, from former coach Joe Paterno's staff, to coach the defensive line.

O'Brien intends to remain the Patriots offensive coordinator through the NFL playoffs.

His five-year contract includes base compensation starting at $950,000, with a 5-percent increase each season. O'Brien will also collect another $1 million a year for radio and television work, as well as a $350,000 Nike contract.-- AP