He was a 2001 participant in the Rose Bowl in Pasadena California, and he is now part of the Learfield Purdue Sports Network. Kelly Kitchel brings excitement and passion to Boilermaker Nation from a player’s and announcer’s perspective. Kitchel communicates to the rest of the Learfield crew via wireless headset and microphone. That is how they know that he has something important to tell them. The former offensive guard and current analyst for Learfield Purdue Sports talked about what he likes about his job. He said, “I enjoy being able to give some insight on how the game is played or why decisions are made. What I love the most is being the eyes on the sideline for those who cannot see the game.” Kelly likes to hang out with some of the fans on the party deck at Ross-Ade Stadium before the game to get a feel for what they are thinking about that day’s game. Kitchel’s responsibilities on the field are different than Tim and Pete’s in the booth. Tim is responsible for calling play-by-play, while Pete is there to bring some color. Kelly is there to bring the fans the emotional feel of the game from the sideline aspect. Kelly’s favorite memory as a player happened against IU the year they went to the Rose Bowl. He had a rose in his mouth to signify the team was going there. Kitchel played with former Boiler and now current New Orleans Saints Quarterback, Drew Brees. Here is what he had to say about the quarterbacks he played with. “I played with Drew Brees, Brandon Kirsch, and Kyle Orton. Drew is obviously one of the greatest quarterbacks to ever play the game. I enjoyed playing with all of them. They all had leadership qualities and lead in different ways. Kyle and I were pretty close, and he was always a calming influence in the huddle.” Kitchel stated the year that the Black and Gold went to California was “surreal.” The whole experience went over the team’s heads. “I am just so thankful to contribute to that team.” Kitchel believes that the Boilers will return to the top of the Big Ten standings within the next three years, and they’re going to be capable under coach Hazell.
