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UNIVERSITY PARK — Outside linebacker Gerald Hodges wiped his eyes. Defensive tackle Jordan Hill nodded his head and softly pounded his chest.
Neither player will soon be forgotten. Each is also part of a group that has been immortalized by Penn State.
Penn State honored the team that plays its final game today at Beaver Stadium by unveiling “2012” on the school’s ring of honor. The numbers now sit alongside those representing teams from 1982, 1986 and 1994 among others along a concrete strip on the stadium luxury boxes.
Penn State honored this year’s player for sticking together after the NCAA levied crippling sanctions against the football program in the aftermath of the Jerry Sandusky sex abuse scandal.
Penn State’s seniors were also honored before today’s game against visiting Wisconsin and outside linebacker Michael Mauti made an inspirational run out of the tunnel that called to mind Adam Taliaferro’s entrance before the 2001 season opener.
Taliaferro battled back from a spinal injury that had left him paralyzed to make the most unforgettable entrance in Beaver Stadium history.
Mauti’s won’t rank too far behind.
The heart and soul of the Nittany Lions is not playing today after sustaining a knee injury last Saturday, but he was able to jog out of the tunnel as the student section chanted “Michael Mauti.”
Hodges is wearing Mauti’s No. 42 today to honor his teammate.
Mauti, Hill, quarterback Matt McGloin, fullback Mike Zordich and linebacker Mike Yancich, were named captains for the 2012 season.
Yancich, a Trinity graduate, represents the special teams.