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By Robert White, Editor-In-Chief
In the ever-evolving landscape of college athletics, Jay Paterno stands as a voice of experience and insight. As a former Penn State quarterbacks coach, author, and public speaker, Paterno is uniquely positioned to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing players and coaches today. His latest book, Blitzed! The All-Out Pressure of College Football's New Era, delves into the seismic shifts transforming the sport, from Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals to the mental health toll on athletes and staff.
“College football is no longer the same game it was even five years ago,” Paterno explains. “With NIL deals and the transfer portal, athletes are essentially free agents. This creates immense pressure—not just on players but on coaches and programs trying to navigate these changes.”
Paterno, who spent 17 years at Penn State and was once named the best quarterbacks coach in the Big Ten, knows firsthand the pressures of collegiate athletics. His coaching philosophy, however, emphasized trust and authenticity over transactions. “Leadership today has become too transactional,” he says. “Players are looking for relationships that are genuine, where people truly care about them—not just their performance.”
Drawing from his own experiences and stories shared in his books, Paterno highlights the importance of building teams rooted in trust. “When you focus on creating a team rather than just a roster of talent, you build credibility and connection,” he says. He cites the example of Katie Schumacher-Cawley, head coach of Penn State Women’s Volleyball, who built a national championship-winning team while battling breast cancer. “She didn’t try to outbid other programs. She focused on creating something special—and that trust inspired her team to achieve greatness.”
Mental health is another area where Paterno is passionate. He believes fostering an environment of trust is key to breaking down barriers that often prevent players from seeking help. “If you’ve built a team where people feel supported, they’ll be more likely to admit when something’s wrong,” he says.
One of Paterno’s most enduring lessons from his time at Penn State is the concept of the “blue line,” a practice field boundary that symbolized a mental shift. “When you cross the blue line, all distractions are left behind,” he explains. “It’s about being fully present—whether it’s at practice, in class, or at home. That focus is something we can all apply in our lives to stay grounded and purposeful.”
Paterno’s reflections also extend to the role of education and leadership in preparing athletes for the future. As he puts it, “The responsibility of coaches and administrators is to not only guide players on the field but to prepare them for life’s challenges. That includes understanding the impact of NIL, managing finances, and navigating pressure.”
In a career spanning coaching, writing, and consulting, Paterno has remained committed to values instilled by his father, legendary Penn State coach Joe Paterno: service to others, humility, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. “Whether on the field or in life, leadership is about creating environments where people can thrive,” he says.
Jay Paterno’s thoughtful perspective on leadership and mental health offers valuable lessons not only for college football but for anyone seeking to lead with integrity and empathy in an increasingly complex world.
Listen to the full interview with Jay on The Savoir Faire Audio Experience.