Paterno, 81, gets extension through 2011

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa., Dec. 16 (UPI) -- Rose Bowl-bound Penn State announced Tuesday it has given 81-year-old football Coach Joe Paterno a contract extension through 2011.

The Hall of Fame coach turns 82 Dec. 21.

A statement from Penn State President Graham Spanier and Athletics Director Tim Curley said the extension includes an agreement "that the parties might re-evaluate their circumstances and alter the arrangement by either shortening or extending its length as necessary."

Paterno has led the Nittany Lions for 43 years, the longest stretch by a head coach at one university in college football history. His overall record is 383-126-3. His teams have won two national titles (1982 and 1986) and 23 bowl games.

Penn State will play USC in the Rose Bowl Jan. 1.