Should Joe Paterno have been fired?

First, let me say that sexual abuse is an awful crime and is always inexcusable! However, that is not what I am writing about.

Joe Paterno has dedicated over 60 years of his life to Penn State University. As their football coach, and the coach with the most wins in NCAA history, Joe Paterno has attracted money, attention, and outstanding talent. Though he had been the foundation stone of Penn State athletics, Joe Paterno was fired Tuesday, November 9,2011.

I want to make it clear that I have never liked Joe Paterno because I am a die hard Syracuse Orange fan, and I never liked the way we complained when other schools would run up the score on his team, though he would do it, and I can't stand when a coach whines about not getting to the bowl game he wanted to. However, anyone should be able to see how Jo Pa (his nick name) made this University what it is, and that the responsibility to handle a scandal at Penn State was not his! The President was and should have been fired, but not Coach Paterno!

Many in the media are stating that Jo Pa was protecting his friend and should be fired. That is absurd! Totally absurd! He reported this man, and was clearly not protecting him!

Joe Paterno knew of a sexual abuse case and reported it to his superior. The university is firing him right before the final home game of his 61 year career for not doing more. What? How cruel do you have to be to fire a man that has served you in an outstanding way, right after he announces his retirement? Very, in my humble opinion. Joe should and could have done more, but the one who should be gone is the superior that never passed on Joe's report! This was personal, because and assistant (who I will not name) will be on the side line this coming Saturday against Nebraska. He is just as guilty as Paterno. I can not back the university on this, nor will I feel bad for them when the players refuse to take the field this weekend, and the fans boycott and ask for their money back. I hope that this does not destroy Jo Pa emotionally or otherwise!

None the less, a hall of fame coach leaves today with a pink slip and a slap in the face, rather than a parade, an award, and a gigantic ceremony like he deserves!