Short Routes: 'Not So' Happy Valley, Defiant Mountaineer, and More!

In a perfect world, Joe Paterno would have won many national championships for Penn State. Instead, he is dealing with off-the-field issues that have tarnished the program's image and possibly Paterno's legacy.

Will constant problems with assaults, driving under the influence, and stabbings negatively impact what tomorrow's generation sees in this great football coach?

Let's hope not, because JoePa has kicked two defensive tackles off of the football team: Chris Baker and Phil Taylor. I would go on to break down each former Nittany Lion, but why? More than likely, their playing careers are over.

While we view him as an Isaiah Stanback-like prospect, West Virginia quarterback Pat White is looking to throw more this year. He is a senior for a Mountaineers team that will see a new offense set in stone.

We like White a lot, but not as much as a passer. He will have to learn to hit the curveball better or else take a chance at running routes on the next level.

In a surprising turn of events, former Ohio State Buckeye and Indianapolis Colts defensive tackle Quinn Pitcock has retired from the National Football League. He is just 24 years old and drafted in the third round a few years' back.

According to Kevin Gorman of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, Pittsburgh Panther running back LeSean McCoy is thinking that this will be his last season of college ball. If McCoy can build on his super season from a year ago, he could easily land in the first round of the 2009 NFL Draft.

Sooner or later, he was due to go under the knife. Star Oklahoma Sooner defensive end Auston English underwent an appendectomy, but should be ready to go by the start of the season.

Last but not least, did you know that the "Thunder & Lightning" duo from Clemson, running backs James Davis and C.J. Spiller, have never fumbled in their collegiate careers? I didn't realize this until now.

Don't forget to visit ProDraftGuide.net and order the 2008 Prospect Preview.