I know it's election season and everyone wants to concentrate on the political stories, but I want to offer my best wishes for a speedy return to the sidelines for Joe Paterno, the legendary head coach of the Penn State Nittany Lions. JoePa broke his leg on a freak play where his own played collided with him, and he may need surgery:

The 79-year-old Penn State coach broke his left leg and damaged a knee ligament when two players ran into him during the Nittany Lions' loss to Wisconsin, and team officials said Sunday that surgery was being considered.

Paterno's son and quarterbacks coach, Jay, said he spoke with his father Sunday and there was "no thought whatsoever of not coming back this year. ... It's not even in the discussion. There's nothing more to read into this in terms of his career."

Paterno fractured the top of his tibia, or shin bone, on Saturday, according to team doctor Wayne Sebastianelli. The injury typically heals on its own with rehabilitation, though doctors and team officials were considering whether surgery would help the leg heal faster, said Guido D'Elia, director of communications for football.

CQ readers know I live and die with the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, but every football fan with a heart has a place for JoePa in it. Paterno has led a classy program for decades, concentrating on both winning and helping his student athletes to become winners in life as well. He has provided the model for college athletic leadership, and his legacy has long since been secured.

Get better, Coach. We want to see you pacing the sidelines as soon as possible.

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» Get better Joe! from American Geek
Ed Morrissey pretty much sums up my feelings regarding Joe Paterno's injury Saturday. My parents both graduated from Penn State and our family has followed Joe's football program for decades. Get well soon, Joe! The game still needs you.... [Read More]

Tracked on November 6, 2006 3:03 PM