He's coached almost every position there is, from wide receivers to outside linebackers to special teams. He's as confident as anyone could ask, especially considering he'll be expected to fill the shoes of Jerry Sandusky, who gained his own following in 23 years leading the defense. When you're the defensive coordinator, you kind of have to have an answer to all the questions. You have to be more aware of all the different things that go on at each position. It's a brand-new conglomerate of defensive whizzes for Paterno, and he's relying on them to improve the Lions' No. 26 national defensive ranking of a season ago.
Nothing remains similar for the other side of the ball, either.
Newly appointed assistant head coach Fran Ganter again will be in charge of the offense, with senior fullback Mike Cerimele and senior quarterback Rashard Casey expected to carry the burden. Every one is a challenge. You wake up in the morning with something to do.