The NCAA erased 14 years of Joe Paterno's legacy at Penn State. The decision holds a program accountable for its failure to stop an assistant football coach who molested children with impunity. Knowledge of Jerry Sandusky's abusive behavior was known, and ignored. Penn State chose football over protecting innocent lives.

The package of penalties announced by NCAA President Mark Emmert included $60 million dollars in fines, no post-season appearances for four years, and a cap on scholarships. Penn State players will be allowed to transfer and compete elsewhere.

Paterno, who died in January, knew what was going on with his former defensive coordinator. The athletic director knew and so did the former Penn State college president. They made an ugly choice to defer to the sacred institution of Penn State football.

They draw the blame for the destruction of the program and its likely slow recovery. Upset fans have no other honest outlet for their anger other than those aiding and abetting the cover-up. Their grotesque lack of perspective invited the harsh penalties the NCAA appropriately levied.