In this Sept. 1, 2012, photo, Penn State defensive line coach Larry Johnson stands on the sideline during an NCAA college football game against Ohio in State College, Pa. Johnson was one of the few bridges from the Joe Paterno to Bill O'Brien era. Now, the coaching staff holdover has strong support from his players to become the next Penn State coach. Johnson was appointed interim coach this week and can only hope the players' vote of confidence carries weight when he applies for the permanent job following Bill O'Brien's hiring by the Houston Texans. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)