Bill O'Brien says he learned a lot during his first year at Penn State

CHICAGO – Bill O'Brien had to learn on the fly last season. Recruiting, academics, marketing responsibilities, it was all on-the-job training for the Penn State coach.

O'Brien says he learned a lot. It remains to be seen if it leads to more victories for the Nittany Lions.

Still, this July trip to Chicago for Big Ten media days was far more enjoyable for the 43-year-old O'Brien. Last year, he arrived after the NCAA announced unprecedented sanctions for the school for the Jerry Sandusky child sex abuse scandal.

O'Brien says that was a "tough time" and he's more comfortable this year. He also has 16 starters coming back from last season's 8-4 team, including star receiver Allen Robinson.