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Reaction Mixed To Paterno Family Statement, This Time, Over NCAA Ruling

By Hadas Kuznits

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – Joe Paterno's family plans to appeal the sanctions imposed by the NCAA against Penn State for the Jerry Sandusky child sex abuse scandal. So what does the public think about this move?

Some folks agree with the family in their decision to appeal the penalties against Joe Paterno and Penn State, including sanctions that vacate 111 of the late coach's wins between 1998 and 2011.

"I think they should appeal it! He was a good coach and Penn State always loved him, they shouldn't take nothing out on him."

Others say the Paterno family should accept the decision, made as a result of the report from former FBI director Louis Freeh that indicates Paterno and three school officials hid allegations against former defensive coordinator and convicted sex offender Jerry Sandusky dating all the way back to 1998.

"I don't think that it should be their place to appeal. I think that they should live with the punishments that he's been awarded."

Many say this back and forth is actually a bit confusing to them as to how they feel about Paterno.

"He's a hero for one and then he's a villain."

It's unclear whether the Paterno family actions will change anything. NCAA spokesperson Bob Williams says the Penn State sanctions are not subject to appeal.

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