Does anyone know a good cardiologist? The game alone between Nebraska and Penn State, which the Huskers prevailed 17-14 took my breath away. Heck, I entered the game 39 years old but after today feel like I’m 65.
As a Nebraska fan and alum, of course I am thrilled the Huskers won because they needed to bounce back after last week’s disappointing 28-25 home loss to Northwestern. However, speaking as a sports fan, you can make the argument that the outcome was secondary. The week leading up to the game was headlined by Penn State’s devastating scandal that led to the firing of head coach Joe Paterno and several others.
The game closed a tumultuous week that began with the arrest of former Penn State defensive coordinator Jerry Sandusky on shocking child sexual abuse charges. Major college football’s winningest coach (Paterno) was pushed out in the aftermath.
What truly took my breath away was the pregame prayer at midfield, in which both teams gathered together. The prayer was led by Nebraska running backs coach Ron Brown. It’s not unusual to see two teams gathering at midfield for a prayer but it’s generally reserved for after the game. Keep in mind; emotions about the scandal were so raw that there were musings about cancelling the game. How raw? Raw as in fans and media members alike voicing very spirited displeasure. Raw as in people to “Not So” Happy Valley, Pa., rioting in the streets.
I still maintain my belief that this game should’ve been played. I can understand being concerned about safety but we’re talking Happy Valley, Pa., not the beach at Okinawa. In fact, I’m even more adamant in retrospect. Of course, it was a difficult week for Penn State players, coaches, administrators, fans -- basically anyone associated with the school. Heck, it’s difficult for any human being, especially if you have kids. I’m a father of three toddlers under age 5 and if my kids ever encountered anyone as vile as Sandusky I’d want him fed to the vultures.
But seriously, what the hell good was going to come of cancelling the game? It wasn’t going to do the victims any good. And why penalize players who were in middle school or younger when these heinous acts allegedly occurred?
OK, so neither one of these offenses are going to be mistaken for Oklahoma State and Oregon but it was an entertaining game between two iconic college football programs that created a diversion from the disturbing week that was.
The game did not even have a trace of players getting chippy. It was two proud football programs that preached sportsmanship before the game through prayer and practiced what they preached during and after the game.
I also have to give a game ball to the Penn State fans. During the week, Nebraska fans worried about receiving hostile treatment and for good reason. There were a segment treated rudely at a game in Happy Valley in 2002 that Penn State won 40-7. On this day, Penn State fans were passionate in supporting their team and gracious to the Nebraska fans that made the trip.
Brown’s actions evoke being a class act and at Nebraska we are blessed to have Tom Osborne, Bo Pelini, and others in leadership positions that represent the University of Nebraska and the state of Nebraska in such a positive way.
On the field, I’ll remember the heart-stopping finish but on this day, I’ll remember the display of honor and respect before and after the game even more.
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