He doesn’t do it often, but Bill O’Brien is definitely smiling today. He and Athletic Director David Joyner released statements earlier this afternoon on the NCAA’s decision to gradually restore Penn State’s scholarship reduction.

Here’s O’Brien:

“Today’s announcement by the NCAA is tremendous news. As a staff, we are especially pleased for our players, who have proven themselves to be a resilient a group of young men. Penn State has long been known for graduating its student-athletes and providing them with a world-class education. The scholarship additions will allow us to provide more student-athletes with a tremendous opportunity to earn that degree and play football for Penn State.”

And here’s Joyner:

“I am very happy for Coach O’Brien, the football coaches and staff and the players; especially pleased for our current and future student-athletes, who are the most important reason why we love working in intercollegiate athletics. We will continue to work hard within the Athletics Integrity Agreement to fully comply and to achieve excellence in everything we do at Penn State.”

O’Brien will also appear on the Big Ten Network tonight at 6 p.m. for a full interview.