Yet another new suitor for Kuempel

Marion, Iowa, three-star offensive tackle prospect Andy Kuempel (6-foot-7, 250 pounds) was one of several prospects who checked out the Ohio State/Iowa game last Saturday in Iowa City. Kuempel talks about his visit to Iowa as well as filling us in on the latest Big Ten school that has picked things up in the Andy Kuempel sweepstakes.

“Things went just fine at the Ohio State/Iowa game on Saturday," he said. "It was a really good game and a big win for the Hawkeyes. I was able to check out the pregame breakfast and I was also able to talk to a few of the Iowa coaches before the game. I had hoped to talk with a few of the players and the coaches after the game, but I had to get back home on Saturday night, so I just left right after the game was over with.

"I'm still getting weekly calls from the Iowa coaches, and head coach Kirk Ferentz has been calling me personally each week. It's impressive that the head coach is calling me no question. I've had a very honest relationship with the Iowa coaches, and I've appreciated that, but I also get the feeling that they are trying to stall me a bit. I know they (Iowa) have offers out to some other players, yet the Iowa coaches also know that I need to look hard at all of my options as well."

Kuempel's early senior tape has been hitting several college coaches desks this fall, and Purdue is the latest schools that has come away impressed at Kuempel.

"I've started to get calls and serious recruiting interest from Purdue over the last week or two. The coaches from Purdue said that they were very impressed with my tape, and I have a feeling that they could be pretty close to offering. I would definitely look hard at Purdue if they offer."

Kuempel will also need to reschedule one planned official visit this winter.

"My official visit with Iowa State set for December 10th will need to change. I had a basketball schedule change, and I have a basketball game now on that following Saturday night. I'm going to reschedule my visit shortly with the Iowa State coaches."