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Way to go, Joe Admiration for Paterno grows as losing streak continues
I never have been a big Joe Paterno man. Don't ask me why. He always has said the right things -- all that stuff about student-athletes and the virtues of going to class every day and getting a degree -- but I always have been uneasy with the message. He's been too successful. You know? To me, success in big-time college football always is accompanied by some kind of back-door maneuvering. There are too many rules, too many people involved, too many other teams out there trying to win the same prize. To win, you have to lift the rug somewhere and cover up something. There's always going to be the kid with the great speed in the 40 who also has the questionable SATs. There's always going to be that, quote, "alumni booster" in the background. I have watched JoePa from afar for all of these years, pretty much neutral, liking those generic blue-and white Penn State uniforms, following the good and the bad, There have been some memorable games, memorable moments, and Paterno's dynasty has been as strong as any. He certainly has been able to coach football, which has been his job. It is interesting that now, in the twilight, 74 years old, as he tries to win his 323rd game to tie Alabama's Bear Bryant for most coaching victories in a career, I root for him more than I ever have. His Nittany Lions are winless. The wolves are barking at his heels and the overwhelming cry seems to be that Joe Must Go. I like it that Joe isn't going. I like his pluck, his determination. Unencumbered by success, he is a more endearing character. Much more. Leigh Montville appears regularly on CNN/Sports Illustrated. The opinions expressed here are solely those of the writer.
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