Another three years for JoePa

So despite all my hopes to the contrary, it looks like JoePa isn't going to retire at the end of this season after all (despite claiming for years that he'd only coach "for another five years"), because he's signed a contract to remain at the helm of the Nittany Lions for another three years.

I have to admit, I feel mixed.

Like 90% of all Penn Staters who bleed blue and white, I love JoePa and think he's a god among legends. But as I've said many times before, Joe ain't getting any younger—in both age and coaching style. In fact, he turns 82 years young in just four days! (The age jokes at Joe's expense already started long ago.) I can't help but feel that Joe's ego and sense of relevance were key factors in his decision. And Graham Spanier, despite having more sway with Penn State's high echelon than in previous years (especially when it comes to retaining Joe!), obviously doesn't want to be known as the man who fired JoePa.

So I guess the only thing I can do is hope he continues to have winning seasons, because when the time finally comes for JoePa to step down, I really want him to go out on top and not with a worn-out welcome.