Here are some things that have cross my mind this Monday morning:
Joe Paterno passed away Sunday morning.
Twelve weeks ago, Paterno would have been remembered as a legendary coach who helped to put Penn State on the theoretical map, both athletically and academically. Instead, his legacy is hindered by the unthinkable child abuse scandal involving former coach Jerry Sandusky, which forced Paterno’s termination.
While I have criticized Penn State for a lack of action in reporting the abuse, Paterno should be remembered for his accomplishments and successes, which are numerous. I believe Paterno made a very big mistake in not reporting the abuse, but I believe he recognized this and was remorseful of his inaction and should be forgiven.
Instead, too many are choosing to celebrate his death as “poetic justice.” We live in a world, today, that rejoices in a person’s failures, especially if that person believed in doing things with “honor.” What does it say about us, as a people, if we rejoice in a person’s failures, instead of rejoicing in a life? Or when we cheering a person’s fall from grace instead of seeking their redemption?
In time, the scandal at Penn State will not be the second paragraph in Paterno’s biography. It will always be a part of his biography, but soon his accomplishments will shine and he will be remembered as the great coach and humanitarian that he was.
Yesterday, I was wanting to party like it was 1995. Instead, I grimaced like it was 1991.
Last night, I watched the NFC Championship game in anticipation that my beloved San Francisco 49ers were going back to the Super Bowl. Instead, I’m wondering if cheering for Madonna to be on key at halftime is an acceptable option.
The 49ers looked like they were on their way to their sixth Super Bowl for most of the game. However, two key mistakes, an inability to score in pressure situations, and unfortunate non-calls by the officiating crew led to the Giants winning 20-17 in overtime.
Even though the 49ers lost, I have a hard time as a longtime fan it is hard to be too disappointed. Going from 6-10 to the brink of a Super Bowl appearance was an unexpected surprise. The 49ers have a great future, however some questions will need to be asked in the offseason. Even though he led the team to win against the Saints, is Alex Smith the long term answer? Is Peyton Manning a short-term option? Are there wide receivers available in the draft or free agency that can produce right away?
The 49ers will be back in the Super Bowl again. Yesterday proved that it will sooner rather than later.
As for the Super Bowl itself, I’m not that excited about the game. It has nothing to do with the fact the 49ers are in the game. I’m just not excited about the Patriots (a team I do not like) going against the Giants (a team I only rooted for in 1991 in the Super Bowl because of WVU’s Jeff Hostetler). I’ll watch, but it doesn’t mean I have to like it.
Part of my displeasure with the match-up is that the national media (ESPN) will hype the Super Bowl rematch, Tom Brady, and Eli Manning. It will be hard to watch.
My early predication is that the Giants will win 24-14. I believe they are playing the best right now, and the Patriots have shown several weaknesses this season.
Our thoughts are with the Paterno family.