Cons
- There is going to be a dropoff, but it's difficult to tell how much. When true top-end guys like Derrick Williams and Justin King came here, it was to help save a flagging and once-proud program, but a lot of other guys come for the honor of playing for a school that has miles and miles of tradition. A big part of that tradition is coming and playing for Joe Paterno. There's a chance that some players, possibly good ones, will change their minds about playing at Penn State if Joe changes his mind about continuing to coach.
- The discipline problems could get worse. There have been a number of off-field incidents in recent years that have led to numerous suspensions and dismissals. It's difficult to say whether Paterno's departure from the helm will improve or inflame the problem.
- Paterno leaving could just be the start of the changes. Penn State and the Big Ten are more traditional than most, so they may just promote from within, but that doesn't guarantee that other coaching changes on the staff wont happen, and any of those could cause unforeseen ripples in Happy Valley.
- Just as much talent is leaving. The team will lose their three best wide recievers and their best offensive lineman (A.Q. Shipley) and the players who fill in next year, well...aren't them.
In the end, I think the positives certainly outweigh the negatives. Joe has a great chance at having a pinnacle season, has solid internal options to choose from for his replacement, and has enough talent to keep the team above water for a few more years. Add in a conference that is not currently powerful and a very patient and understanding fan base for the new coach, and it would appear that there is no better time than now.
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