The Bus. Every football fan knows this nickname, even if they weren't Steeler fans. The nickname belongs to the one and only Jerome Bettis, former Pittsburgh Steeler running back
Bettis hadn't started out playing for the Steelers, however. So how did he make his way into the hearts of Pittsburgh? Here's a little background information on how our beloved Bus came to be a Steeler.
During his college recruitment, most universities wanted him as a linebacker. Bettis knew he wanted to be more than that, he wanted to "dish out punishment to linebackers". His wish to become a fullback was granted by Notre Dame in 1990. After three years playing at the collegiate level, he entered the 1993 NFL draft; Bettis was the 10th first round pick, and the team that chose his was the Los Angeles Rams. His first nickname, the Battering Ram, was born.
*Side note: If you are wondering why I'm saying fullback and you're like "No, he's a running back!", a fullback is just the specific type of running back. His job is to be the lead blocker who runs out in front of the line to clear a path, either for himself or another receiver.*
After the move of the Rams to St. Louis in 1995 and the need for a running back for the Pittsburgh Steelers, the two teams made a trade to bring Bettis to Pittsburgh in exchange for giving up two picks; one in 1996 and another in 1997. Ta-da! That's how The Bus rolled on over to Pittsburgh (and upgraded to a better team and nickname).
As a Ram, Bettis had 3,091 yards rushing and total of 14 touchdowns, 13 rushing and one receiving. As a Steeler, 10,571 rushing yards and 68 touchdowns, 66 rushing and two receiving. If you don't think that's impressive, let me add to the list! He was selected to play in six Pro Bowls, was lead rusher 11 times (three for the Rams and eight for the Steelers), has a Super Bowl ring, do I need to continue?
It has been almost 10 years since The Bus retired, and the Steeler nation still misses him. However, now he will live forever in the NFL Hall of Fame. January 31, 2015, Jerome Bettis was elected into the Hall of Fame along with seven other football stars. The big day arrived on August 9, 2015 in Canton, Ohio when The Bus was officially inducted. (Hopefully the next Steeler to enter the Hall of Fame is Hines Ward!)
Jerome Bettis now ranks sixth on the all-time career rushing yardage at 13,662 yards. He worked extremely hard to get this position and has earned every bit of it. He has made Pittsburgh, and the rest of Steeler nation, very proud. Congratulations, Jerome Bettis!
Sources:
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2538341-remembe...
http://www.profootballhof.com/hof/member.aspx?Play...
