2003: 3-9 overall, 1-7 Big Ten (T-9th)

Coach: Joe Paterno 339-109-3 in 38 years at the school

Returning starters: 15; 6 offense, 7 defense, kicker, punter

Players to watch: QB Zack Mills (136-251-1,404 yds., 6 TD, 5 Int.); QB/WR Michael Robinson (62-138, 892 yds., 5 TD, 5 Int.), TB Austin Scott (436 yds., 100 att., 5 TD), OT Levi Brown, CB Alan Zemaitis (4 interceptions), DE Derek Wake (4 sacks, 8 TFL)

Hot topics: The Nittany Lions have a couple of decent options at quarterback in Mills and Robinson, and Scott is a promising back who will run behind an improved line. There may not be a better cornerback in the conference than Zemaitis.

Cold facts: One-time Linebacker U lacks playmakers at that position and the school has piled up off-the-field incidents faster than victories in recent years. At least 11 players were cited or charged with offenses from February 2003 to February 2004.

Overview: Hard to believe, but under an icon like Paterno, the Lions have been a lackluster 22-26 the last four years. Rather than hand him a pink slip after last year's 3-9 finish, school officials gave Paterno a four-year extension.Will he reward their loyalty?

Originally published Wednesday, September 8, 2004