Ouch! JoePa injured in practice collision

Legendary Penn?State football coach Joe Paterno was injured during practice on Sunday but is expected to return to the field soon.

Paterno suffered injuries to his right shoulder and hip when he was “blindsided” by a receiver running a drill.

The 84-year-old coach “walked away after the collision,”?according to a statement issued by the team yesterday. Sources told ESPN’s Chris Fowler that Paterno also sustained a hairline fracture to his pelvis.

Paterno resumed his coaching duties yesterday morning via speakerphone from Mount Nittany Medical Center, where he was undergoing tests. A team spokesman said Paterno was expected to be released this afternoon.

“I expect to be back at practice soon. I’m doing fine; tell everyone not to worry about me,”?Paterno said in a prepared statement. “I like the effort I?have seen from the squad during our first few practices, but we have a long way to go to get ready for the schedule we have.”

The Nittany Lions are ranked 25th in the preseason coaches poll, a year removed from a 7-6 season.

Paterno is not expected to require surgery, according to Dr. Wayne Sebastianelli, Penn State’s director of athletic medicine.

Paterno was on the field taking notes when junior wideout Devon Smith ran into him. Paterno walked off the field, where he was quickly intercepted by physicians for examination.

During last month’s Big Ten media day, Paterno insisted his health is strong and that he exercised plenty during the offseason.

Paterno was originally expected to address the media during the team’s preseason media day, but that is now expected to be rescheduled. Paterno is entering his 46th season as coach.