Joe Paterno Retiring: Embattled Coach Makes Necessary Choice to End Career

Joe Paterno wants to end his career at Penn State on his own terms.

According to an AP report, he's going to try and do just that at season's end:

Whether or not the university acts before that time remains to be seen.

The circumstances surrounding Paterno's impending retirement are sad, humiliating and possibly career-defining.

For a man who has dedicated his life to the sport of football and Penn State University, this is a sad state of affairs.

As news continues to break in the Jerry Sandusky sex scandal, Paterno has no choice but to call this season his last (again, there is still a strong chance the university moves against Paterno before the season even ends).

The coach of 46 years is being pushed and pulled from all angles and nobody is concerned with football at the moment.

As of right now, many believe Paterno did what he was legally obligated to do while failing to live up to his moral obligations.

The news of his retirement now, more than anything, is Paterno's attempt to get out of the spotlight as quickly as possible. Still, it is not enough for most people.

Clay Travis, an author and prominent sports writer, tweeted:

He's not alone either:

Quite simply, Joe Pa is trying to end his illustrious career on his own terms.

It is his only option to save face in way, shape or form.

Unfortunately, his opinion, career and legacy might not be enough to grant him this opportunity.

One way or another, Joe Paterno's legendary career at Penn State is about to end.