A capsule look at Joe Paterno's media availability on Tuesday. Paterno didn't have a press conference, but he was on the Big Ten conference call for 10 minutes.
This week's game: The Nittany Lions (8-1 overall, 5-0 in Leaders Division of Big Ten) are idle Saturday before hosting Nebraska on Nov. 12. Kickoff will be determined by Monday.
Next for the Cornhuskers: Nebraska (7-1 overall, 3-1 in the Legends Division of Big Ten) hosts Northwestern on Saturday.
Not ruling out Bolden: Backup quarterback Rob Bolden, who was 0-for-4 with a fumble and a near-interception in last week's game against Illinois, "probably" will still be used in a rotation with Matt McGloin, who has started the last two games. Paterno said Bolden "was having troubles with Illinois," but, "he still has a great future. We're still going to do it as a rotation." Not to, he said, "wouldn't be fair to Bolden. He's worked too hard and has made too many sacrifices, and he's got too much ability. He's got to be ready to go, and I'm pretty sure we'll end up playing him."
Bye-week plans: Paterno said the team was given off Monday and was scheduled to receive flu shots Tuesday. Team doctors suggested it. "We've always had a preventive [attitude] because it can decimate a whole football team," Paterno said. The team will practice Wednesday through Friday before getting the weekend off. While he thinks some players can use the break, Paterno added, "I don't particularly like the bye week because it gets you out of the routine."
Big Ten race: The Lions have a two-game lead in the Leaders Division, but Paterno isn't looking at the standings or a possible appearance in the Big Ten title game. "We're not good enough," he said, adding the Lions must play Nebraska then close with trips to Ohio State and Wisconsin. He praised the team's work ethic and attitude. "I've had teams that more natural talent, but these kids have worked hard and stuck together."
Milestone reflection: Paterno's 409th career victory Saturday passed Eddie Robinson on the all-time Division I win chart. He was presented with a plaque after the game and asked about it again Tuesday. "I don't think much about it. The day will come when maybe I'll sit back and think about it, but right now I haven't got time."
- Neil Rudel
