Jan. 1, 2007

TAMPA, Fla. (AP) - Joe Paterno watched the Outback Bowl on Monday from the press box, absent from the Penn State sideline for a bowl game for the first time in his 41-year career.

Wearing his trademark rolled-up khakis and blue-and-white Penn State jacket, Paterno walked the field at Raymond James Stadium with the help of a crutch before the game against No. 17 Tennessee. He shook hands with Volunteer coach Philip Fulmer and other well-wishers before heading into the tunnel.

Paterno is recovering from a broken shinbone and two torn knee ligaments in his left leg. On Sunday he said he was sore from walking through "agility drills" trying to get ready for the game.

The 80-year-old coach hasn't been on the sideline since Nov. 4 at Wisconsin, when two players barreled into him. He had surgery the next day.

Paterno watched the next game against Temple, Penn State's first contest without the iconic coach since 1977, from home. He returned to Beaver Stadium on Nov. 11 to watch the season finale against Michigan State from the press box.

The career coaching leader in postseason victories with 21, Paterno viewed his 33rd bowl game - the most among coaches - from a box high above the field as well.