Joe Paterno has decided to retire as head coach of Penn State football at the end the season, according to the Associated Press. The Hall of Fame coach's iconic career will end in scandal resulting from the investigation of former defensive coordinator Jerry Sandusky for sex-abuse.
Scott Paterno, the coach's son, confirmed the announcement to Harrisburg Patriot-News' Sara Ganim.
Ganim added that "a source close to Joe Paterno says it was his decision to retire, and he's still had no contact with board of trustees." Given the nature of the scandal, media spotlight and public outrage, it's still possible that Paterno is fired before the end of the season.
Paterno is one of several members of the school's athletic department and administration who learned about the accusations of child molestation, but did not report the matter to police. He is not suspected of criminal wrongdoing, but the outrage from this scandal has proven too much to survive.
The winningest coach in college football history, Paterno has led the Penn State football program since 1966 and been on the staff since 1950, following his graduation from Brown University.
Penn State is 8-1 this season and a contender to win the Big 10. The Nittany Lions host Nebraska on Saturday.
For more on the Nittany Lions, visit SB Nation's Penn State blog Black Shoe Diaries. For the latest news updates on the Jerry Sandusky investigation, follow this comprehensive StoryStream.