25 college football programs with the most tradition

Sep 26, 2015; South Bend, IN, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish defensive lineman Isaac Rochell (90) is congratulated by cornerback Cole Luke (36) after making a tackle against the University of Massachusetts Minutemen at Notre Dame Stadium. Notre Dame defeats Massachusetts 62-27. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /

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Sep 17, 2016; University Park, PA, USA; A fan stands outside of Beaver Stadium protesting the commemoration of the first game and win of former Penn State Nittany Lions head coach Joe Paterno on September 17, 1966. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O /

16. Penn State Nittany Lions

The Penn State Nittany Lions may be a somewhat controversial selection for inclusion on this list given all of the controversy swirling around deceased former head coach Joe Paterno and convicted child rapist Jerry Sandusky. No matter how you slice it, it’s an ugly, disgraceful situation for what was once perceived as one of the NCAA’s cleanest programs.

It hasn’t been so happy in Happy Valley the past five years, but the program still boasts a lot of tradition. Paterno had five undefeated seasons and won two consensus national titles. His program produced a Heisman Trophy winner and scores upon scores of NFL players. There are currently 51 Penn State alums active in the NFL. Six PSU players have been enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Penn State is best known for its rich tradition of punishing defense, earning the nickname “Linebacker U.” From Jack Ham and Shane Conlan all the way down the list to Lavar Arrington, Paul Posluszny, Sean Lee and Tamba Hali, Penn State has produced hard-nosed defenders who have gone on to star in the NFL.

Penn State is still trying to pick up the pieces from the Sandusky scandal, and only time will tell if the head coaches and players that will come in the future will be able to bring the Nittany Lions back into consideration as a top 10 NCAA program.

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