BLUE ASH, Ohio — There has been plenty of excitement around University of Cincinnati football before, with major bowl trips, but never an appearance in the College Football Playoff, which has Bearcats fans and alumni beyond excited for the Cotton Bowl.
“It’s been quite a ride,” Kelly said. “Didn’t really have that master plan, it just kind of worked out that way. A little bit of luck, little bit of hard work, you find yourself rising up in those different areas — whether that’s music, or broadcasting — but it’s been a fun ride.”
Jim Kelly is also a musician in addition to being a notable broadcaster on the radio.
Kelly has been covering the team for three decades.
“I think I’ve been to 91 Division I football stadiums in the country,” he said. “That number keeps going up.”
So he’s seen a lot of the ups and downs, which is why this year is special.
“The program has grown up so much,” Kelly said. “It’s nationally recognized now, everyone knows what the ‘C-paw’ is. They know that’s Cincinnati, anyway. To watch this program grow, even in the bad years has been a lot of fun.”
Kelly has helmets dating back to his playing days and also bowl game rings from victories through the years.
All special, but Kelly is hopeful to add one that’s never happened before.
“They’ll definitely add a ring, let’s hope it says National Champions on it,” Kelly said.
