The Lions' Pride

Agree, and I'd say much less than that..........................

He should retire right after the Rose bowl against Oregon. Oops, timewarp. Any day now then.

It's just a damn shame that Joe has so much say in the situation (which I think he has earned but it's time right now) and that the administration lets him walk all over them. I know all the AD and University see is $$$$ and as long as Joe's around, they will continue to bring in big bucks but when is enough is enough? Imagine the money we could bring in with some fresh minds on the coaching staff that are actually exciting to watch and take risks during the game. People of all sorts would flock to Happy Valley even if they can't get into the game. I honestly don't think it's going to be as bad as some make it out to be when Joe's gone. That of course depends on who the hire is.

The safest way for the BOT to best guarantee themselves solid footing after a transition is to have an organized plan and universally accepted successor in place before any announcement is made. As comm stated, the timing in relation to that successor is a huge issue...and that timing is far more advantageous this year than last year for many reasons. Basically, everything is in order for an efficient transition come January...BUT...nothing is 100% assured with a man who has changed his mind and won the 'tug of war' several times before.

The media would celebrate Joe. Who is really going to get outraged (other than IndyNit) about an 85 year old man being told to step aside? Especially if a media darling like Urban Meyer or Tony Dungy were to assume the reins. Also, not to bad mouth Tom Bradley, but I think Joe would be far more receptive of handing off the mantle to a guy like Urban Meyer than the supposed plan for Bradley in '08.

I just don't see how this is that hard, I know they worry about their image, but his contract is done after this season... There is a difference between firing a legend and not resigning him because it us unsafe for him to continue coaching (devon smith anybody?)

Make no mistake, Coach is still the captain of this ship. I have been doing what I do for a long time now and my loyalties still lie with the team AND with Coach. Let's hope level heads prevail............................

Going to add a wrinkle.

If you looked around the stadium against ISU (or now pay attention against home cupcake #2), you'll notice that STEP wasn't near the success the AD hoped/projected. In particular, the intermediate seats, ($400 license) really undersold (there were HUGE empty sections).

Everyone is saying it is about money, well I agree with the posters that said a new coach will bring renewed interest. With a lot of unsold season ticket plans (they didn't really sell out, they just removed them and sold way more single game sets), watch the $$ train drive Joe out for a HC that can fill out the STEP orders, an especially tall order with the downgrade that is next years home schedule.

There will be backlash from idiots like Mark May who will criticize PSU no matter what. Other than that, as long as we don't make it personal, everyone will understand. You will hear a lot of "It shouldn't have come to this, but it is understandable." We almost all feel the same way. Damage done to PSU will be next to zero, short term.

Long term, assuming a successful hire, you will see much renewed interest from fans. I know I have refused to attend games this year due to Joe, and I will be back at the Beav once an outside hire is made. Can't wait. If we are successful again, you won't see any seas of Crimson anymore at Beaver Stadium. STEP will be much more successful minus Joe Paterno, imo.