From Touchdowns to Textbooks: Jerome Bettis' Return to College Post NFL | NFL Films Presents

[@dwensinger]

My brother went to Notre Dame while Jerome was there. We ran into him several times. He’s always been a class act and was super friendly. I remember seeing him driving around campus with his stereo turned up. Glad to see him keep his promise and finish up at ND!

[@gregj831]

Jerome Bettis just exudes positivity and doing the next best right thing. We can only wish there were more people like him.

[@gamera5160]

Bettis sounds like a lot of adults that I saw when I was in undergrad. They were all very diligent, they were invested in the class, and their experience was an asset. I felt the same way when I went back to school to get my Master's degree in my 30's. I felt like my life experience, my maturity, and my patience really helped me thrive when I went back to school. Honestly, I think kids should go into the work force for a year or two before going on to college. Getting some real life experience and an understanding of what you want to get out of your education is huge and a very important motivator.

[@Ceezy223.]

Funny enough , I did that and it made a me a better and stronger person. Going back to get my bachelors and masters in computer science and history.

[@jaym3796]

That’s what I did. Did 4 yrs of military and then enrolled into college. Now I have a bachelors and a doctorate. This is very inspirational for anyone wondering if they should go back or start college. Age is just a number

[@NeilTruick]

I'm a 50-year citizen of Steeler Nation and I'm proud to say Jerome Bettis truly is one of the best of us. When he walked out of that last final, I was crying right with him. It reminded me of when I went back and earned my Bachelors' as a 43-year-old in 2005. I had the career in tech I always wanted, but I also wanted a college degree. So, I merged the two...worked full-time and attended online campus full-time (just after filing for divorce, on top of everything else). It was such a good feeling, I went back for my MBA (Class of 2007). You are never too old for anything. Whether it's college, trade school, entrepreneurship, or just building a happy family, if you do your best, the best will come in return.

[@Headhunter_212]

well done! Persistence truly IS an underrated superpower.👏👏👏

[@BarLadyy]

Excellent! Happy for you!

[@Lunarlawndarts]

No surprise he’s a man of his word…thanks for the many great memories, Mr Bettis.

[@MeshChromatones]

The greatest. My favourite ever Steeler. 36 has truly lived the best life 🖤💛

[@jazzybeardancer]

Jerome is such a class act. He did it for himself and is just such a role model for so many people and a great example that you never stop learning in life

[@allanpaiz3348]

I needed this. I’m 30 year old veteran going to university, I feel what he’s feeling in some of these clips. I feel very out of place, and I got a long way to go, but this was motivation I needed.

[@jonmolina948]

I would’ve loved to have someone like Jerome or yourself in my class. I started after getting out the Marine Corps and it was bad for me from a social perspective. The good thing is I majored in math, everything was mostly pencil, paper, and written exams. No group projects. I ended up graduating with a 3.2 GPA. But looking back, trade school and an online business degree would’ve made me more money.

[@allanpaiz3348]

@@jonmolina948 Rah! I’m a USMC Vet. as well brother. I’m a Computer Science major, so a lot of Math and STEM courses. I internally debate leaving school and going construction, but I feel like I’d be leaving money on the table… money I gave years to earn.

[@alexiswilliams8475]

When I was in college we had older student come back school I admired that and thought they was cool and need more advise from them. We had a 90 year old go back at mu college and we helped her. Just dont be shy the younger students don't care about your age they will be willing to help you and want to learn from you. You got this, you will do well

[@brettduncan15]

Wow this was really inspiring. Jerome Bettis was a stud but retired before I was old enough to care about football. Seeing this gives a great perspective on the person he was. An all time NFL legend and a great role model!

[@Beastmode-mb4cz]

He should be called the school bus 😂

[@OvSpP]

Beat me too it 😂

[@tristanfaucett3714]

Hahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahhahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahah

[@Ihaveunquit]

😂

[@nyoungjunior]

Bet you won't try to tackle him 😂😂

[@msimmons213]

🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@dseoulk]

Even though his Steeler team took a Super Bowl away from my Hawks, I have always and will always root for Jerome. Nice job Bus!

[@albertreade7607]

Hey I was wondering how much percent of the “hawks” do you own ? lol crybabies

[@carsonnations1497]

@@albertreade7607that game was rigged. Stop bragging about a rigging

[@Widhcdkajdbkdp]

@@albertreade7607he was praising Jerome no one was crying about anything 😂 not much going on on Saturday nights for you so I can see why you are the way you are

[@albertreade7607]

@@Widhcdkajdbkdp look who’s talking scrolling through comments what a Putz, defending your Bf lmao

[@fortynights1513]

@@albertreade7607Seahawks fan here, but Super Bowl 40 doesn’t bother me anymore because 48 exists. Though “the Pittsburgh Steelers did it the hard way” is one of the most ironic calls I’ve ever heard. As for Bettis, he had a pretty darn good career for himself, and more of one than any player of his archetype is likely to ever have again going forward.

[@ericl6386]

Love to see a retired athlete living a great life with his family seems like he invested his money well and takes great care of his family

[@starwarsROXmy]

This was fun. I went back to school at age 25 after dropping out my freshman year at 19 due to a case of pretty bad depression. Going back at 25, finally medicated, and finishing my bachelors at 29 was definitely a bit tough at first, because you're not used to school. However, once you get past that and realize why you're there, it's a very enjoyable experience. I think a lot of kids could use a few years in the real world before they go to college. We should normalize it, because our society just expects every 18 year old to go in there and know what they want. There's nothing wrong with going to college at any age, and having that experience in life is so vital. Much respect to the Bus and his positive outlook.

[@Headhunter_212]

great job! keep going!

[@lebronbrady6638]

I’m 21 and Ideally I plan on going back this fall and I’ve felt bad about taking a break but I realized it was probably the best decision I could have made based on how I was feeling sure I feel a bit behind at times but it’s just because I’m comparing myself to others etc

[@victorschlatter3357]

So wholesome got me teary eyed

[@DavidSmith-dg2mf]

Arguable the best NFL films snippet that’s been done! Couldn’t help but tear up at the end when he’s talking about his Dad. What an amazing guy and an amazing story!

[@A1Pro77]

Well done sir and big respect to you! Now that is a real man! A Super Bowl champion, NFL Rookie of the year, NFL Hall of Fame and now a graduate of the University of Notre Dame. All of that, and his biggest accolade…Keeping a promise to his Mother! A REAL Man!

[@ryaneugenelawrencewalls1987]

Jerome The Bus Bettis always has always was and always will be one of the greatest Steelers to ever play the game i really appreciate him i absolutely respect him more and more of why he won a super bowl championship in 2005 from his hometown of Detroit Michigan the University of Notre Dame Fighting Irish alumni was special without a doubt he really made it worth while in Pittsburgh the 1st Round 10th overall in 1993 nfl draft by the Rams in Los Angeles in 1996 he went on to the Pittsburgh Steelers and the rest was history but now he's a hall of famer 🖤💛🖤💛🖤💛🖤💛🖤

[@dxwallace55]

I remember seeing a video of Bettis a decade or so ago, and gained so much respect for him. Hines Ward said when when he first got to the Steelers, Bettis told Hines in the cafeteria "Don't just sit with the Black Guys all the time, sit with the white guys some of the time". Bettis said he would sit with the kickers or whomever else he randomly choose, he got to know everybody. Rothlesburger said when he got to the Steelers, Bettis gave Big Ben his number and said, "If you need anything call me, you're our leader now". Great dude, happy for him.....

[@bobbullethalf]

I love it when these NFL vets return to college, it makes me happy. We need more stores like this of retired NFL players returning to college to finish their undergraduate degrees.

[@misawajason]

So awesome. What a story to take in. Big congratulations, Mr. Bettis! Well earned, and well deserved!

[@paulready8897]

Awesome video. What an amazing family and an amazing human being. Very humble. Love his mother, very wise woman.

[@wendydimon9934]

What an amazing story. Beautiful family. I think it’s wonderful he decided to complete his education. He is well spoke and you can tell extremely educated. He was a phenomenal running back. That story offered much hope and inspiration to many. Good for him!

[@charziard35]

It all starts from the top down, if it wasn’t for mama he wouldn’t have had the balls to go back. What an amazing story!

[@Stantonthestandardstanding]

I will never be a Steelers fan, but it was a pleasure watching Jerome play in his prime. He was an absolute freight train. Congratulations on your receiving your degree.

[@OvSpP]

Imagine seeing this in your class as a Steelers fan.

[@johnmilligan2964]

I have been a Steelers fan since long before Jerome wore the uniform, but he's one of my favorite players. He has always been a class act and a great representative of the Steelers. Love seeing that he is continuing to be a class act!

[@scottismail6311]

Had a chance to meet and be around JB a few times when we were both students at ND - He always had a smile on his face and treated everyone well - just a great dude all around and nothing short of a legendary football player. Proud to call him a fellow alum!

[@Tjhistorian12]

Education is everything. Bettis is admirable on the field and off. A great example for today’s youth.

[@GymAndSun]

Everyone loves Jerome 👏

[@Ghostfaace22]

Your pops was there, JB... in spirit! Thanks for the great memories that I was privileged watching you play for my home team. Thank you for reppin' the Black and Gold. Congratulations on getting your degree and your life accomplishments. May God continue to bless you and your family. 🙏🏾

[@6Texasboi]

I dont think anyone should care about what someone else graduates in(not saying i saw someone that)...it is truly an accomplishment because you stuck through with something and spent hours and hours learning and trying to perfect a craft no matter what that craft is. Good on Jerome! Loved watching him play on tv!

[@waltsnoop]

As someone who also had to go back to college to finish after 4 years, this story hits home close. A Truly inspirational story. Way to go BUS!!! God Bless you and your family!

[@melissabowers6268]

God Bless you Mrs. Bettis and Jerome and his whole family. Such a great story.

[@mchall5404]

This is such a sweet story. Jerome seems like such a wonderful person, student, father, and husband. I love stories like this!

[@lgarcia67]

Absolutely wholesome dude! So happy for him and what a great example for his kids and other kids! Hard work, dedication to whatever you do will pay off. AND you can do many things in your life, including education.

[@JuanBarberis]

This is what leaders are about. Focus, determination, execution. Thanks, Jerome, for your example!

[@jamesroncali7262]

Grew up loving the bus! When he retired I was like 16 so I switched teams when he left... Call me a band wagoneer, but I moved to Missouri at the same time and ended up living like 25 minutes from the chiefs and royals stadium so I became a Chiefs fan ever since then. But Jerome will always be one of my favorite players hints the reason I'm even commenting on this page! Congratulations to the bus for graduating college

[@IronHellion]

Jerome Bettis is a great man, an amazing role model, a class act, and an inspiration to everyone around him.

[@algernon5776]

What a beautiful story of inspiration & love. Congrats to the Bettis family.

[@WhipahSnapah]

His mom, man. Amazing woman ❤

[@xxxxbigrich5752]

That was so awesome promise made promise kept what an incredible motto! So happy for him and his family well done sir. 🎉

[@XcuzeTheMessDeer]

I love the Bus he is and inspiration on and off the field it seems. He always seemed like such a first-rate human being. Its rare to see a big guy move as quickly and gracefully as Jerome Bettis

[@mrmartywaring]

Although I'm an Eagles fan, I never root against any Steeler. This is an amazing story from one of my favorites.

[@sandrairvin3515]

One of my favorite players, I, happy for him and his family

[@lafonze8824]

One of my favorite players EVER!!! Always had a positive attitude in any situation. A True Professional 💪🏿❤️

[@marcocarbajal9299]

The greatest lesson to take away from this story is the importance of finishing what you start.

[@dakrit]

What a Legend!

[@OlydiaBee]

The very 1st NFL Player that I followed was Mr. Bettis you have ALWAYS been my FAV NFL HOF❤🥰

[@Bigbubba1993-]

Seein the student section celebrate the bus is awesome. Everyone deserves that once in they’re life. That’s the only thing I miss about playing in college. The Lockeroom celebrations and students too

[@dominicbonarrigo6502]

“It’s gonna be a long day for somebody” 😂

[@InterstateRevenue]

they talking to Jerome like a damn child “be careful honey, please be careful” 🤣😂

[@oogrooq]

Great piece. Newfound respect. Congratulations Jerome "The Bus" Bettis and family.

[@MindBend-gi8cp]

I'm a Ravens fan I bleed purple! But Jerome Salute Brother! 🔥🙏🏾

[@villebryant4346]

Much respect to the bus mane, great college player, nfl hof, and now a notre dame graduate 🎓

[@lucydiaz4851]

So inspirational to me and all that will listen to your story including your family Sir. Now, write the book!

[@shulestuff]

I am watching this smiling - this is such a great story

[@ajax203showme]

This brother and family are all class acts. JB is an ND icon, that all should be proud of.

[@potter22q]

going into the second half of my college experience, I know I don't have the same emotional drive to finish my degree, but this inspires me, I want to be a student like he was, and I will do it.

[@YeahYall]

Queen stayed uplifting her King. ❤️

[@tonyowens6802]

Love the HOF backpack…🤣

[@kristin8270]

This was so inspiring! Always liked Jerome Bettis.

[@cylack]

Not a ND or Steelers fan, but this was super cool seeing his dedication to education and keeping his promise to his mom. As someone close to his age, it is not easy to study and take tests at this age.

[@brendanbugala8774]

Congratulations 👏

[@champagne6763]

One of the best NFL Films I ever watched

[@jshshh1041]

Loved every minute of this. From Jerome, to the awesome family unit he and his wife created, to his Mama being the first call he made. Only thing I hated was that his Pops wasn't there to see him shine in person. He was there, though, probably grabbing anyone in Heaven he could to come see his boy succeed at yet another thing

[@Truetoo102]

Love the Bus, so many Great years in Pittsburgh. It's great to see he's continuing his education.

[@305youtuber]

such an inspirational storyline!!!, you can't help but just love it when the pro athletes or those with a successful and ongoing career, return and complete their college degree and education ✋😏🤚 👏😃

[@number1Saintsfan23]

Great memories with my pops watching you play growing up

[@peterbuonaccorsi8040]

Bettis was a fantastic college football player and pro, but he was also a very good basketball player. I remember watching him play in the 'Bookstore basketball' tournament showing off some low post moves and backing guys much taller than him under the basket... also super-intimidating riding his mountain bike on the sidewalk going to and from class back in the 90's!

[@puckplayer219]

What a good dude and outstanding role model!

[@mojoriden]

Bettis family is a good one

[@cicliolmo7152]

Great piece NFL Films. Bus, you have a beautiful family ! I admire you for being all about it with finishing your degree. I'm sure it ranks up there with all your life accomplishments.

[@WealthyLove1]

That’s dope! Congratulations Jerome!

[@TheGammingPie]

I hate the steelers but you have to love a guy who can freaking love Jerome Bettis running over anyone and anything for a td. what a legend

[@Joseph-jx8bl]

Great player and a great person! GO BUS GO!

[@ryanhoward9552]

I really enjoyed this, hope to see more stories along this line. Post NFL careers.

[@carrollbridges6427]

The has integrity. Congratulations man

[@manner7073]

I love it. Secondary education is the most direct path to a fair living in this country.

[@goalscorerlajon]

Not only is Jerome Bettis one of my favorite players but, he's one of my favorite PERSONS.

[@nickmarkopoulos2720]

For any steelers for just bettis fans out there His autobiography is amazing

[@andrewhall3715]

So happy for him!

[@mistae.n.v.9937]

His uncle was my teacher and football coach his cousin was my class mate my cousins went to high school with him and another cousin recruited him to notre dame to play the same position lol my cousin played for Indy and chargers he was a passenger on the sun jet crash in 96 ESPN allowed Jerome to interview my cousins mom and daughters and he spoke about going back to school. I totally believe in six degrees of separation his uncle was a mentor he was there for me because I lost my father my cousin(NFL Player)and my Grammy(Prom Day) within an 15 month span jr&sr yr the reason I gave up on football and school however seeing this and knowing where we come from and who raised us I am definitely going to go finish my studies and earn a degree frfr long live Leroy bogard his uncle!

[@miggys7]

Way to go 👏 True champ on and off the field 🫡

[@chukwunonyeanyakoha8573]

As a Steeler fan, i am proud of Jerome Betis. He fits the mould of the kimdnot character thr legendsry Chuk Noll used to build thr grratest Steelers. This is a real situstion of the standard being the standard

[@MrSuckafree247]

Truly inspiring.

[@Headhunter_212]

kids thought The Bus would snap that skinny ladder

[@reggieburris]

Steelers for life, The Bus for life. Thanks for the great years Jerome, my brother!

[@Camille-mv3mr]

Good for him! I like Jerome Bettis

[@anitagladden293]

Jerome don’t feel bad I walk across the stage at California State University Los Angeles at the age of 50 also. And was working two jobs. Because I had a mortgage. I am very proud of you

[@GeedyP]

We love you Bus congrats great story 🙏🏾✊🏾👨🏾‍🎓🏈

[@uniqwiab8679]

This was awesome! With determination, you can achieve!

[@bunaldiaries6418]

Love the content and everything, but as someone commented here, that HOF Backpack is lowkey fire. What a flex, HOF Bus! Hahaha!

[@davidgrillo9928]

Pure class. Thank you bus.

[@justadudeintheworldman.120]

I completely forgot he played for the Rams. Whenever I think of the Steelers, he’s one I always think of and he stays on my Madden team every year

[@41Steeler]

I say Jeromes in the house, I say Jeromes in the house.

[@EarnYaBonez]

New nickname The School bus 😂

[@yoavbeneliyahu6686]

Great to see former players keeping themselves active, mentally& physically, i think there is another steelers veteran who completed his degree recently

[@giibzc2371]

He is a tough nice guy . Fs a team player and one who observed a leader to become a leader . His college thing is fs insprining.

[@Chris-kh4rq]

Cool story. Ran into him at the airport in ATL. Really nice guy

[@Ohmyjosh916]

Imagine being the guy who let Bettis go back when he was on the rams.