WBNS is reporting Wednesday morning that Ohio State Buckeyes head coach Jim Tressel was unaware of linebacker Dorian Bell’s intent to transfer to Pittsburgh.
Bell had been suspended by the school for the entire 2011 season following what is being suspected to be a repeat offense in a violation of team rules. Bell was originally suspended for three games that caused him to miss the Sugar Bowl at the end of last season. A transfer to Pittsburgh would require Bell to sit out the entire 2011 season due to NCAA transfer rules.
According to WBNS Tressel replied to an inquiry about Bell’s transfer to Pittsburgh by text message, stating that he was not aware of any intention to change schools by Bell.
Bell was making a push for considerable playing time in 2011 at the strong-side linebacker position for Ohio State after having an impressive spring in Columbus. Last year as a redshirt freshman Bell recorded nine tackles. He was also looking to make an impact on special teams this upcoming season and was slated to be Andrew Sweat’s back up at the weak side-linebacker position. Now it seems that Storm Klein will be making more of his presence felt on the football team this year, possibly with a starting job.