Jerome Bettis

JEROME BETTIS (http://imagecache2.allposters.com/images/pic/PHOTOFILE/AACS012~Jerome-Bettis-Multiple-Exposure-Photofile-Posters.jpg)

People around the world know Jerome Bettis as "The Bus" but who is Jerome Bettis, really? In this article I'm going to talk about the life and football career of Jerome Bettis, through him growing up in Detroit, playing college football at Notre Dame, and his record-breaking NFL career with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Also, why he is a hero to me.

JEROME BETTIS SCORING A TOUCHDOWN (http://www.photofile.com/Photos/Photos_Of_The_Day/06_01_23/05BettisJeromeAFC01.jpg)

Jerome Bettis was born February 16, 1972 in Detroit, Michigan. His football career began at Mackenzie High School, which is in Detroit. Jerome's life not only revolves around football but he has several charities. One of his charities is the Bus Stops Here Foundation, which aids underprivileged children. This started in 1997. He even has a book out called "Driving Home: My Unforgettable Super Bowl Run". However, even though he doesn't play football any more he's still involved with football. Jerome is currently an anchor on NBC's Sunday Night Football. The question still remains though, how did Jerome Bettis's historic career start?

JEROME BETTIS AT NORTE DAME (WWW.GOOGLE.COM)

In 1990 Jerome Bettis attended Notre Dame University where he played running back. Most people thought he was more built as a fullback. His 1st year was pretty solid but his 1992 season is what really got him recognized by the NFL. His 1992 season was capped off when Norte Dame won the Sugar Bowl. Like all players who have outstanding performances in a championship game, Jerome won the MVP of the Sugar Bowl. Overall, his college career stats were good for a college career. He racked up 1,912 rushing yards(averaged 5.7 yds per carry) along with 27 touchdowns.

After his colllege career at Notre Dame, it was time for the NFL career to begin. In 1993 Jerome was drafted 10th overall by the L.A. Rams. His 1st year was a huge success winning the 1993 Rookie Of The Year award. Even though he was doing well with the Rams, due to contract and money issues in 1996 he traded to the Pittsburgh Steelers. Truly, with the Steelers his Hall Of Fame career really started. People in Pittsburgh had never seen a big running back since Franco Harris. Jerome is considered one of the best big backs of his era. He was like a bulldozer as he ran through everybody towards the end zone. When the Steelers were in the red zone, the only man they looked to was Jerome because of his strength and power. He went to 6 Pro bowls('93,94,96,97,01,04). 3 time Steelers MVP('96,97,2000) and he won the Walter Payton award. His main dream was to win a Super Bowl and on Feb.4th, 2007 his dream came true as the Pittsburgh Steelers defeated the Seahawks 21-10. Not only did the Steelers win their 5th championship but Jerome got his first title in his hometown in Detroit! Jerome's stats in the Super Bowl were rushing for 43 yards on 14 carries. However, like any other athlete, it was time for Jerome Bettis to retire. He announced his retirement directly after the Super Bowl. In conclusion towards his Legendary NFL career Jerome's career stats in the NFL were 91 touchdowns and he is fifth on the National Football League's all-time rushing list with 13,662 yards.

In conclusion, Jerome Bettis is considered a hero to me because he inspired me to never quit and always follow my dreams in life no matter what. Once Jerome Bettis got on a roll in his 1st couple years in the NFL he established himself not only as The Bus but as one of the top NFL running backs ever. I really looked up to Jerome because it doesn't matter how big you are or if you don't have good speed because as an athlete you can achieve anything and it worked for Jerome's Hall Of Fame career.