End of an era ....

For the first time in my life, this football Saturday will not include Joe Paterno on the sidelines of a Penn State game. The legends of the game are moving on. At least Bobby Bowden (another whom I can recall solely as the coach of a single team), was able to go out  on his  own terms.

JoePa has become a fixture in State College. It is a shame that he has to leave the game in the manner that he did, but he is accountable for his own actions and cannot blame anyone but himself.

I am a big fan of Mr. Paterno, as many who follow college football are. He has always represented himself with class and dignity and commanded respect. It is a shame that he was not allowed to finish the season, however I fully understand and agree with the action the university took.

It is a sign of character to show loyalty to those close to you. This is what JoePa did. However, while he reported the inexcusable actions of Sandusky to his bosses, he should have also contacted the police.

I am not familiar with all the facts surrounding the case nor how many kids were molested. If he had just gone to the police with it, instead of protecting his friend, this would not be discussed right now and he could've stepped down gracefully. Again, loyalty is one thing, but when kids are involved -- especially in such a heinous act -- it needs to be reported so it can be stopped before other kids are harmed.

I just hate that this is the way he will be remembered. After so many years of carrying himself in a respectful manner, this whirlwind hits him and gets him fired. As mentioned, I understand why the university took the action they did and believe it was the correct way to handle it. It's just unfortunate.

Wow! It will be so odd not to see either JoePa or Bobby Bowden on the sidelines. It truly is an end of an era