In the past, I've been critical of Jay Paterno, Penn State's quarterback coach, for some of his play calling and coaching decisions.
But when it comes to important stuff, Jay is right on.
In response to the recent signing of Lane Kiffin at USC, Paterno wrote a blistering piece about what's become of college coaching.
He wrote:
"This profession has lost touch with the reality of the world around us, and some coaches have lost touch with what the mission of our profession should be.
"It wasn't too long ago that we saw head coaches' salaries go past the $1 million dollar mark -- they have now surpassed the $5 million mark with no sign of slowing down. We are starting to look as arrogant as the Wall Street bankers raking in seven-figure bonuses.
T"he astronomical explosion in coaching salaries continues at a time of 10 percent unemployment in America and exploding tuition costs burdening working class families.
"I am not saying that every coach should take a vow of poverty or stay at his school for three decades, but we must remember what has made ours a noble profession. It is the mission of our profession: the use of sport to help young men transition from high school and prepare them for the world that awaits them after college."
Jay's heart is in the right place. Of course, he learned from the best, JoePa.
He's the the kind of coach we want at Penn State and in college football.
Whatever I said in the past, Jay, I take it back. There is a lot more to this game than calling plays and teaching passing mechanics.
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