When the end of Joe Paterno’s coaching career coming amid the Jerry Sandusky investigation and Penn State sex-abuse scandal, it makes more difficult to examine the coaches historic records on the football field.
Joe Paterno Retiring: Penn State Coach’s NCAA Records Leave Historic Legacy
Joe Paterno’s historic career is over at Penn State. Here’s a look back at some records held by the iconic coach.
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In this situation, there is room to honor the on-field accomplishments of an iconic coach and cover the ugly scandal in State College, Pa. Below is a look at Paterno’s career. For the latest updates on the Jerry Sandusky investigation, visit our comprehensive Penn State Scandal StoryStream.
Joe Paterno’s legacy is a marriage of longevity and sustained success. Just take a look at these career records.
Paterno in the winningest coach in major college football history with 409 career victories. He passed former Grambling State coach Eddie Robinson, who had 408 victories, on Oct. 29, 2011 against Illinois.
Paterno’s record has a head coach is 409–136–3 overall and 24–12–1 in bowl games, including two national championships (1982, 1986). He has had 38 winning seasons -- one more than another legendary coach, Bear Bryant.
As for longevity, Paterno has spent more time as the head coach of a single Division I program than any coach in NCAA history.
For more on the Nittany Lions, visit SB Nation’s Penn State blog Black Shoe Diaries. For the latest news updates on the Jerry Sandusky investigation, follow our comprehensive StoryStream.
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