Penn State Scandal: Franco Harris Needs To Turn Around and Shut His Mouth

Pittsburgh Steelers' Hall of Fame running back and former Penn State player Franco Harris is on his way to State College right now looking for answers.

As was reported by WTAE in Pittsburgh, Harris is looking for a face-to-face answer on why his college coach, Joe Paterno, was fired. 

"

There is a guy who is really undeserving of getting attacked in a brutal way, and I just can't sit by and let that happen...I really want to get some answers. How do you justify the firing of Joe Paterno? And I want to know from the president, why aren't you rehiring Joe Paterno?

"

Franco, if you are reading this or if anyone who knows Franco is reading this, please direct his attention to the Grand Jury Testimony.

I understand that these are all alleged charges. I also understand that none of them are directly on Joe Paterno. He's not being accused of molesting any young boys, or anyone for that matter.

But by reading that testimony, you will see that there that Paterno was told of what happened in 2002. It's now 2011. That's nine years where next to nothing happened.

If you're looking for a good reason as to why Paterno was fired, that's a good one. 

Now, I think it's unfortunate that this scandal will come to define Paterno's legacy, but it's his own doing. Harris needs to know that. Anyone thinking that Paterno shouldn't have been fired needs to know that.

Harris is entitled to his opinion, of course. But he needs to realize that.

According to the WTAE report cited above, Harris has already lost an endorsement with the Meadows Racetrack and Casino.

"

In light of the recent developments with Franco Harris regarding Joe Paterno's dismissal, Franco and The Meadows have mutually decided to put their business relationship on hold at this time.

"

Sure, Harris is entitled to his opinion, but The Meadows is also entitled to take this action. 

Some things go beyond 46 years as a head coach at one school. Some things go beyond two national championships. Some things go beyond 409 wins.

Very few things go beyond all three. But anyone who doesn't think that this does really needs to read that testimony and think about this for a second. 

When you're in a position like Harris is in, you need to realize that coming out with your opinion has consequences. If he doesn't know that now, he will soon.