Penn State Sex Scandal

Penn State University announced an alleged sex scandal involving their Athletic Director, Tim Curley and Senior Vice President for business and finance Gary Schultz, and most importantly their Assistant Coach, Jerry Sanduksy, according to a USA Today Article.

Sandusky has been allegedly accused raping nine young boys at a boys camp he ran. Curley and Shultz lied to a Grand Jury about their knowledge of the rape incidents.

The Nittany Lions football team is currently under the microscope of the investigation. Head Coach, Joe Paterno is being targeted for his seemingly passive role in the scandal.

Paterno received information of the sexual abuse that was occurring, but proceeded to tell officials and rid himself of the burden of investigated himself.

How could Paterno be so out of tune with the ethics he has so strongly represented during his tenure as Head Coach?

Unfortunately, Paterno is the epitome of a legend, and it’s disheartening to see his name next to the word “scandal” in every headline in the country right now. The way I see it, Penn State just wants him out. People are simply using this scandal as a perfect excuse to get rid of Joe Pa, and not because he is a bad coach obviously, but maybe because of his age and limited abilities. 

But what does this mean for the Big Ten?

The Nittany Lions remain undefeated in the Big Ten, with Nebraska, Ohio State and Wisconsin left on their schedule. However, the recent scandal, especially since it involves the famed Coach Paterno, could be detrimental to their team’s ability to finish out their schedule.

Team chemistry, attitudes and stress that could result from the scandal affecting their football team and head coach has the potential to ruin a team like Penn State. Penn State has won multiple close games this year, and this scandal could be just what they need to push them over the edge…into failure.

In a Bleacher Report Article, it was reported that Paterno was to hold a press conference regarding their upcoming match against Nebraska, but the University President canceled it unexpectedly because of the scandal. 

More to come as the scandal investigation develops.