Patriots hope to avoid distractions

By Howard Ulman

Associated Press

Published: Friday, Jan. 6 2012 2:07 p.m. MST

Summary

With offensive coordinator Bill O'Brien headed to Penn State as head coach, the New England Patriots hope to avoid distractions while preparing for the playoffs.

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — With offensive coordinator Bill O'Brien headed to Penn State as head coach, the New England Patriots hope to avoid distractions while preparing for the playoffs.

Wide receiver Julian Edelman said Friday nothing has changed and the team will return to work after having the weekend off. ESPN, citing unnamed sources, reported Thursday night that O'Brien would remain with the Patriots through the postseason.

Two people in the NFL with knowledge of Penn State's search for a head coach told The Associated Press on Friday morning that O'Brien has told them he plans to replace fired coach Joe Paterno. The persons spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak about the search.

The Patriots are the top-seeded team in the AFC and have a bye this weekend. O'Brien is likely to be introduced on Saturday.

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