Joe Paterno Legacy: Tantalizing or Tarnished in Wake of Scandal?

In an era where scandal and controversy trump all, the recent passing of Joe Paterno marks the end of a legacy so monumental not even Jerry Sandusky can bring it down.

Even amidst the whirlwind of rumors and speculation surrounding the Penn State athletic program today, it would be blasphemous to argue we have lost one of the greatest figures the sporting world has ever seen.

After 46 successful years as head football coach at State College, many will remember Paterno for becoming the winningest coach in Division I history. Others will remember him for his distinct image and his thick, square glasses on game day.

But his legend transcends football.

What separates JoePa from the rest cannot be explained with the 409 career victories, the 37 bowl appearances or any of the other seemingly untouchable records he holds.

What defines Paterno more than any measurable statistic ever could is the indescribable relationship he had with the local community. What makes his legacy virtually indestructible is the unconditional love each and every fan held for the iconic coach.

He dedicated 61 years of his life to the Nittany Lions and hardly asked for anything in return.

He was Penn State football.

And now, while the sickening sex scandal remains looming overhead, most of us will be forced to judge Paterno based on what comes from the Sandusky circus.

But for those more familiar with the Brooklyn, N.Y. native, it is an entirely different story.

“The people at Penn State did him a terrible injustice by firing him. His legacy as a coach and teacher of men should not be tainted,” said Thomas Kennedy, longtime friend of Paterno.

The opinions of players and personnel will also likely remain unchanged because of the way JoePa constructed his program.

“He made time to get to know his players and families which really helped everyone buy into the program…for those inside or closer to the program, Joe will remain the icon that he [always] was,” said Greg Jones, captain of the 1980 Penn State football team.

Like it or not, the two-time national champion will be subjected to harsh criticism in coming months as details continue to leak out.

Ironically, for a man who gave his life and more to a single university, the ultimate question many will ask is: Could he have done more?

The truth is, we may never know. But what we do know is that Joe Paterno transformed not just one school, but an entire community. He brought Penn State not just success, but love.

As we mourn the loss, let us celebrate the life.

Here’s to happier days in Happy Valley. I'm sure that is all Joe would ask for. 

Unless otherwise noted, all quotes were obtained first-hand.