Joe Pa Returns to the Sidelines and PSU Wins Easily

It was a beautiful suuny day in Happy Valley and 107,600 fans turned out to see the Nittany Lions open the 2007 football season against Florida International University. One of the biggest enjoyments of the day was seeing the 81-year old Joe Paterno run onto the field with the Nittany Lions. (If you remember last season, Joe Pa broke his leg in a game at Wisconsin when he got hit by a PSU and Wisconsin player on the sidelines).

Although the Lions didn't play a particularly strong opening opponent, it did serve as a tune-up game for them. Penn State handled FIU in every aspect of the game. I only hope they can get the running game working before next weeks game with the Fighting Irish.

The final triumphant of the day, was sitting at the tailgate party and watching Michigan get beat by 1AA Appalachian State (Sorry, Riley - I know your a Michigan Fan. I bet the Michigan Flag won't be flying at your house for a while). It was fun watching the game. It reminded me of March Madness and always cheering on the big underdogs. (Remember when Bucknell beat Kansas a few years ago in March Madness). As much fun as it was watching Michigan get beat, the question that comes up is "How much will this loss hurt the Big Ten Conference?"

Anyway, I had a great time in Happy Valley on Saturday and I can't wait until the PSU vs. ND game this weekend in State College. I wish I had tickets, but watching it at home will be just as much fun seeing Charlie Weis take one on the chin. It will also give me an opportunity to collect back from a friendly wager that I lost last year from Ryan K. Hey, Ryan are you going to be painting your car in blue and gold again this year?