Uploaded with ImageShack.usIn 1982, a one-loss Penn State team got the sympathy vote from the East Coast media because of Joe Pa's "eminent" retirement and edged out an undefeated SMU team for the top ranking.
I was a senior at SMU when the investigation hit that led to the death penalty. As WFAAs Dale Hansen did the ambush on Coach Collins and other athletic officials, it did not take long for the house of cards to collapse. The entire administration and most of the Board were purged, along with the entire athletic department. There were no student demonstrations in support of Coach Collins - just the opposite.
Contrast that with the PSU reaction, before tonight, to a far more egregious situation - a rally for Paterno and an intention to let him coach through the rest of the season. The charges and timeline are shocking. PSUs officials seemed to not understand the gravity of the situation which only made the story grow and anger the nation.
I would not be shocked if this behavior was being ignored throughout Sandusky's career which started in 69 at PSU. The fact that it went from at least 1998 forward is bad enough.
It sounds like the adults are finally taking charge at PSU. This will become a classic case to study on how NOT to manage a crisis.
I proudly pass the "worst college football scandal EVER" torch to Penn State. Enjoy. It will take quite an effort to top this.