There has been a wide range of emotion and reaction in regards to Joe Paterno in the past week. Paterno's alleged role in the Jerry Sandusky case has been well-documented, and what has followed has been a wide spectrum of opinion.
For the most part, though, those opinions have attacked the longtime head coach, not only for his actions or lack thereof, but also for his character. One of the media's louder personalities is rushing to the coach's defense, at least to defend Paterno's personality.
ESPN's Rick Reilly used Twitter to give his opinion on Paterno on Thursday.
"Yes, Joe Paterno made a bad mistake and had to go," Reilly tweeted. "But he's decent, honest, humble. Zero NCAA violations in 45 yrs. Don't paint him as evil."
Reilly also chimed in on the fate of assistant coach Mike McQueary, whose alleged role was outlined in the grand jury report as someone who saw Sandusky sexually abuse a child. According to the report, McQueary went to Paterno instead of reporting Sandusky. For that, there are many, like Reilly, who feel McQueary got off easy.
"Penn State fires Paterno for hearing but not acting, but keeps McQueary, who testified he SAW the rape and didn't go to the cops? Unfair."
Reilly's latest column reminded readers that the children involved are the real victims in the Penn State scandal, while opening his column by saying "This is not about Joe Paterno."
