Everyone knows Joe Paterno loves the media.

Alright, maybe "love" is too strong of a word. "Accepts" it is probably more appropriate. But this morning, maybe Joe's famous Nike shoes were tied a little too tight. As his players sat in table in the back of the media room, Paterno took the stage amidst a swarm of reporters, cameramen, and a few alumni sprinkled about.

Needless to say, it was loud. And Joe didn't feel like waiting for people to get quiet...

"If you guys are gonna shoot the bull, then get outta here!" Paterno barked into the microphone.

Wow, I guess someone's a little tired for the 8 a.m. press conference.

Anyway, after his little outburst he took a few questions, making sure to remind everyone in between each response that he had a lot of work to do.

He talked about his hip, his possible return to the sidelines, and the ins-and-outs of USC. Meanwhile, his players chilled in the back, answering a few questions here and there. They were dressed in their jerseys, each tucked into a pair of warmups. It was classy, and consistent....

Then USC's turn came...

Beatboxing, hooded sweatshirts, hell even rollerderby hats were the names of the game for the Trojan team. Players filed in and took more questions from reporters, while Pete Carroll took his turn at the podium answering questions.

Right now, it's writin time for us here at the Marriott in Los Angeles. There's word of a possible beat writers basketball game later today, the perfect combination of savvy trash-talking and cheap beer.

As for after that? Be on the look out for the Collegian football writers' Rose Bowl preview video. We hope to make it out to a nearby beach to shoot this baby on the sand. Plus, who doesn't like to see three out of shape dudes with their shirts off?

-Eller