Jerome Bettis Super Bowl Champ, Detroit streets to NFL Hall of Fame talks Saquon & legacy| The Pivot

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"The name on my back was always my moral compass." Jerome Bettis
Here comes the Bus! Yes Pivot Family, we have an epic episode as Ryan, Channing, and Fred sit with NFL legend and Hall of Famer Jerome Bettis, known in the football world as “The Bus.” Bettis shares stories from his humble beginnings to strong family bonds to renowned football career to his life journey making it from the streets of Detroit to the fame walls of Canton and inspiring moments along the way.
Very few organizations have the identity the Pittsburgh Steelers have and Jerome Bettis is very clear on how that football organization shaped not just his play on the field but his way of life in how he approached every aspect of life. He recounts how Pittsburgh’s blue-collar mentality resonated with him, how the locker room shared in a special camaraderie with players embracing the culture that created the team's collective drive for greatness.
Starting the conversation off with a little fun reflecting on the old rivalry between Bettis and
Freddy T back in the days where Fred would have some of his best games vs the Pittsburgh Steelers which transitions the guys into talking the current state of the NFL, specifically the diminishing value of running backs and how today’s offenses have shifted away from the power running game Backs like them thrived in. Bettis calls out how Philadelphia being in the Super Bowl is no surprise since the team acquired Saquon who in Bettis' mind, is the ideal Franchise running back along with Derrick Henry, who both proved a strong ground game is a must for a team's longevity.
Speaking of Super Bowl, Bettis recounts the pivotal moment that shaped his decision to delay retirement: a conversation with his late teammate Clark Haggans about playing the big game in Bettis' hometown of Detroit and how he couldn't miss that run. His decision led to a full circle moment capping his career with a storybook ending winning a Super Bowl title with his Pittsburgh Steelers.
The discussion dives into Bettis’ early life in inner-city Detroit, where football wasn’t initially on his radar. He candidly shares how his high school coach helped steer him away from the streets, convincing him that he had the talent to play in the NFL. Bettis credits this intervention as his pivotal moment, leading him to Notre Dame, where legendary coach Lou Holtz recruited him and paved the way for a new opportunity. He opens up on moments of humility, including a funny story about winning Rookie of the Year but still being required to take out the trash at his parents’ house as well as insights into his father’s advice to always protect the family name and the pride he felt seeing fans wear his jersey...a constant reminder to uphold a standard of excellence.
A journey filled with so many highs and powerful moments, Bettis never shys away from the lessons learned along the way, although he jokes he didn't think his own teammate Ryan would bring up the hardest one to talk about. Emotion masked with laughter, Bettis reflects on how his career could have ended so much differently after fumbling the opportunity of his life-long dream in the AFC Championship game vs the Indianapolis Colts. He takes Ryan, Channing and Fred through the rollercoaster of emotions in that few second span and how humility turned to hope and how his life was forever changed for the better and his legacy cemented in history books.
With humor, wisdom, and candid storytelling, this episode highlights the many sides of Jerome Bettis-from the relentless competitor to the devoted family man. You don't need to be a Steelers fan to appreciate this powerful story filled with inspiration, lessons, prayer, perseverance, humility, and the pursuit of greatness.
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[@skinnyluther]

It's crazy how likable Bettis, Hines Ward and Polamalu are. Like they are all so kind and intelligent men. Our early 00s Steelers were a class act hands down! Made the city proud of our organization

[@ronaldwilliams8407]

As a ravens fan I hate all 3 of them 😂😂😂

[@markwhite975]

@@ronaldwilliams8407😂😂😂😂😂😂😂 smoked me

[@user-cc9vw4mo6g]

Not like cry baby Pickens now days

[@ShelbyRodriguez-k3g]

Ever heard of anyone talking about out Hines ward like this

[@pcthegreat4204]

- My favorite RB of all time 🚌

[@hazeleyedsoul3282]

Bettis was part of a golden era of RBs in the NFL….Barry Sanders, Emmitt Smith, Terrell Davis, Freddy T, Marshall Faulk, Edgerrin James, Ricky Waters, Curtis Martin, Eddie George, etc, etc, etc…

[@Telly26]

Yes and a very young Ladanian Tomlinson, Clinton Portis and Ricky Williams.

[@dis6900]

Prime Bettis in the 90's was something special to see. Go back and watch his ND highlights or early Steelers highlights. He was something we've only seen from some select few RB's...Bo Jackson, King Henry and that's about it. My favorite Steeler of all time, Love JB!

[@hazeleyedsoul3282]

@@dis6900 Earl Campbell has entered the chat 👀

[@Kingkofi23]

I think his NBA analogy to the running back position is spot on. They have taken the position and changed it to something it was never meant to be.

[@hatethegamejackson1923]

Yeah bc Marshall Faulk was an anomaly back then : now it’s a requirement

[@makingmoves3650]

@@hatethegamejackson1923peep how fast the position burn out now smh

[@feliciaf.4971]

The interview I didn't know I needed. I Love Jerome 'the bus' Bettis❤ My nephews were talking about football one day and I asked if they knew the Bus, I had to pull up KZbin so they could see some of Jeromes greatest plays in NFL. They were in awe, as was I.

[@BlacktopBully_A-Train]

This was one of the best eras of the NFL. I loved watching you play.

[@xilften1]

Couldn't say it any better man. It's hard to describe how great it was

[@Jemreaux]

I agree, not too much pass happy but not the archaic slow game of yesteryear either .

[@FourompTex]

1970-2004

[@FS-all-day]

I agree with all you guys! Defense and great running backs! And QBs didnt have yellow flags attached to their jerseys.

[@chillbro2275]

yeah, it's my favorite era too.

[@robylifelaw4664]

People don't know when a 240+ lbs running down hill at you, that's a different ball game. JB's size and agility was truly generational. Derrick Henry is the closest thing we've seen to this since JB retired.

[@JudgeBasch]

Yeah totally, towards the end of his career was prolly closer to 270 which is even crazier when you think about it

[@dontew6721]

They do know. That’s why they don’t play football.

[@jhubb91]

I guess Brandon Jacobs never existed 🙄

[@michellebrummer3897]

RC you’re right!! There’s no football like NOTRE DAME football! Proud momma of a 2023 grad!! 💛☘️💙

[@jdagreat4595]

He is actually 260lbs .

[@valariebrunson6221]

I used to Work with Jerome mother at Providence Hospital (Southfield, Michigan). Great Guy. Raised right.

[@guylaiche9409]

yes you ca tell he was raised right

[@steelersluv]

He’s so genuine.

[@marshallmoyer3752]

One of the best Steelers of all time!

[@rocknew1624]

Jerome Bettis is such a special man!! He dedicated many years and thousands of dollars to youth football in Detroit. Great, kind, handsome man!

[@awanders1awanders194]

Pivot crew, This was a very outstanding interview. The Bus is just a fine, great, and outstanding running back and person. He advice to is son attending college is excellent parenting. Go 36

[@heiliger1000]

Started watching this podcast about a year ago and and quickly became one of my favorites. Jerome Bettis is an absolute class act. Great episode.

[@xilften1]

The Bus was a beast RB that probably will never be seen again in league. It was a generation of football that is hard to describe but those that experienced it definitely cherish it.

[@wendyjohnson3980]

First NFL Jersey I have ever purchased #36 💛🖤

[@marshallmoyer3752]

My first as well

[@chevezfrazier376]

Late 1990s in Chicago, 'The Bus' played in Steve Conley's celebrity charity basketball game at our high school (Luther South). 'The Bus' got on a fast break, took off and dunked. The whole place erupted, peeps were stunned and amazed by the sheer agility and athleticism he possessed at his size. Is it me or do 'The Bus' and Spice Adams have similar mannerisms, must be a Detroit thing.

[@davidprice4777]

Fellow Detroit MacKenzie HS class of 1988;I am so proud of you Jerome Bettis, God bless you Sir!Very Humble and Smart Man!

[@darrinelliot.]

Jerome Bettis is the reason why I’ve been a Rams fan for 35yrs. He’s such a 1 of 1 talent & was the ultimate professional. Loved this episode.

[@blknbldnstl]

From 48:00 min too 50 min mark I was crying laughing at the Bus response....of all people it be your own that gets you...RC 😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@wordisbond8189]

Agreed, one of the best Steelers of all time! Also, a great dude when you meet him in person! 👊🏾😎

[@ronaldlove8748]

Yes sir. Met him and his best friend in Vegas right before Pittsburgh got him He was hella cool Talked with them for like an hr. Laughing and talking like we’ve known each other for a long time. Shout out to Bettis real good dude

[@guylaiche9409]

@@ronaldlove8748 NEVER was a steelers fan but loved the bus

[@Fridays17]

Very insightful conversation. I could listen to Bus talk all night long …great guy, genuine guy, humble guy.. these interviews are educational to me.. thank you pivot team ,another excellent interview!

[@smileygrl808]

Coming from a bengal fan, Bus was a complete beast. 3rd and 3-4 yards, guaranteed 1st down. Can’t hate on that greatness! Mad respect for polamalu as well, such an animal.

[@the-value-of-integrity]

Really appreciate the back stories of these sit-downs with players on the Pivot.

[@samuelrobinson5612]

When his daddy said " I'll see you in a week" THAT spoke volumes 💪💯 Black father's ARE present. Sounds like my Dad. Great interview..

[@crazylegs98]

👏🏾👏🏾

[@SuperShepard1]

Jerome gave the BEST parties in Detroit! 🔥

[@gran1dprix]

State theater 🔥🔥🔥🔥

[@ericmandell7895]

Greeaaatttt interview! Awesome breakdown of the RB position, franchise RB’ s, and how the RB position in college football relates to the position in the NFL!🤙🏽🇬🇺

[@bcraig138]

Jerome Bettis probably does not remember it, but I sat next to him at the bar at a club call the platinum many many years ago in Birmingham, Alabama and he was one of the coolest brothers I knew! I think he said he was here dealing with something with asthma

[@PhoenixPrime396]

This draft has some worthy backs for a change. Bettis killed it on the basketball psychology/analogy.

[@roshawnsaunders309]

My Steelers haven't been the same.... Miss the old squad.

[@LikthaDoNN]

Man y’all had some dawgs back then. Must see TV!

[@Rich-l6r]

Tomlin does not know how to Fix the Problems The Steelers have not been to the Playoffs in 8 years that's a Major Problem also Tomlin is just Collecting a Paycheck

[@marvin7533]

Troy always reminded me of Junior Seau. Both played reclkeless and knew exactly where they ball would be. I lived in San Diego for 28 yrs and Junior will always be San Diego's legend with Tony Gwynn.

[@tylermeacham5199]

He wasn’t lying about no one standing around him 48:50. I just went back and watched the tape and EVERYBODY left him 😂😂😂😂

[@Zack_Balo]

36 is STILL the most coveted and respected jersey anybody can wear in the 412. He is and will always be the embodiment of the “Steelers way.” Amazing interview as always fellas.

[@tonyjackson9959]

Definitely an all time great and from D. The Bus shared the field with my cousin, Rodney Culver at Notre Dame who tragically passed away on the ValuJet crash in the Florida Everglades in 1996. Just wanted to say thank you for your support to the family.

[@LJHeiss301]

The Bus was a whole alien. Built like a rhinocerous but athletic af. One of my favorite players ever.

[@Poiboy82]

Greg Lloyd, Kevin Greene, Rod Woodson. That defense was cold.

[@debbienavarro3968]

Great episode, I love the pivot and of course Jerome Bettis! I remember seeing him at a home game, he had already retired but he was there watching the game. We made eye contact and he blew me a kiss, made my day❤

[@shumonbrown5229]

Awe!!!... that was cool 🥂🍾... one to remember huh, Debbie?!!!

[@mikeyoung4130]

Loved watching him at Notre Dame. Ran for 20 tds at ND as a sophomore. Balled out his junior year. Entered the NFL draft and my heart was broken. I really wanted him to stay at ND for his senior year in 93. Went 12-1 that season. I collected football cards in middle school. I had 12 of his rookie cards. His rookie season for the Rams was crazy. I remember going into my sophomore year of high school and buying his replica Rams jersey at the outlet mall with my Mom. I bought the white Rams away jersey with the yellow sleeves and the blue horn on the shoulders with the blue numbers. Man I wish I had kept that jersey

[@leslierochester3309]

Wonderful interview, his honoring Junior Seau was admirable. I love the Pivot!

[@LJDS1979]

An awesome moment that I will remember is when they won the SB and Hines Ward said were going to Disney World! Then a pause and he says and we're taking the bus! 😂 that was dope

[@scorpiorican09]

Been waiting for this one!! THE BUSSSS!! My favorite all time Steeler! “Time to make the doughnuts!” 🐐

[@ejohnson7062]

In junior high i used to caddy at the golf club he's a member at. This man was genuinely nice and so down to earth. Always signed autographs for us. Laughed and joked with us. Asked about how we were doing in school. Im 40 years old and that has always stuck with me 💯

[@clifford104]

Jerome Bettis and Christian Okoye the two most amazing big backs ever

[@mrkirksey]

Dope interview. We need him on TV full-time. Legend

[@Traww619]

I’m a chargers fan and LT is my guy , but I loved Jerome as well we had a under appreciation for the backs we had in the early 2000s

[@jwells1914]

Salute to the Westside of Detroit Legend and fellow Mackenzie Stag Alum. I love that he still shows love to Coach Dozier. ✊🏾✊🏾✊🏾

[@michellebrummer3897]

My favorite player!!! THE BUS!! I’m excited to watch this!! 💛🏈🖤 I’m bout to go put on my Bettis jerseys on!!

[@DontTrip001]

After the superbowl parade he shook me and my dad's hand in the parade hanging out of a truck core memory . One of the best episodes ever such a good dude

[@jdagreat4595]

One of my favorite running backs in history of thE NFL. The buss,

[@bojax1n]

thank yall for this fr🙏🏾 STEELERS for life!!!!!

[@winnie4396]

Wish yall would have asked about him and ray lewis rivalry. Both of em were knockin heads. Miss them days

[@kennewton7518]

Jerome has always been such a genuine person and I always cheared for him for that reason. Great interview

[@limoman4125]

The bus is such a genuine guy!! I drove him to st Vincent after the super bowl and i still remember that trip to toss day great guy

[@bryanbradshaw4257]

Fred's shirt is absolutely HILARIOUS!

[@deespearman]

1:02:31 Def need Troy as a guest. He’s like Andrè 3000 one of the GOATS and you barely hear from him

[@Carolinakid1984]

My RB! THE BUS! Oh man this is one of my favorites all time

[@ericlarson8019]

Chan: “Does Pittsburg recruit GREAT people or does playing for the Steelers make you a Great person?” Great question!! Bus’s answer was great as well. INCREDIBLE PODCAST, GENTLEMEN! Please keep it up! 👊🏻👏🙏🏻💪🏻

[@victorespinoza6210]

Damm you guys are on it with these great podcasts.

[@benjaminwilson_sr]

All I can think about is Karlous Miller story about meeting him in the airport 😂😂😂 85South

[@RoderickDalton-k6p]

Where we eating dinner afterwards? "WHAAATTT?!?" 😂😂

[@heavykoe]

This my guy!! I'm an Eagles fan for life, but some players made me keep up with their games, and Bus is one of those guys. Great interview!!!

[@michaelbrowne9835]

So happy to see you my Detroit brotha.

[@DonBrownII]

Mannnnnnn this was such a GREAT episode. One of the greatest.

[@wordisbond8189]

One of my all time favorites… Big man with light feet. Great to have late in the 3rd into the 4th.!!

[@nacka78]

Jerome Bettis, what a great storyteller! Much love from Poland!

[@jenniferhill7794]

Thank You Pivot!!! This was one of my all time favorites! I was super excited as I scrolled through looking for an episode to watch. I know I smiled through the entire interview 😊. I always enjoy hearing those special moments shared by the guest and the Pivot Crew!

[@azurnettemann6228]

The Bus and Foote Detroit Finest!!!!

[@tsalter11]

Whatupdoe?! I’m from the “Hood” in Detroit too… much old than Jerome. Big fan of the pivot… It is so refreshing to hear you Bruthas talk about football, Life and Family. Y’all keep that positive energy flow coming 😎 Luv Y’all Bruthas

[@lawrencedaniels555]

Those stories about the coaches coming to recruit him is classic. Bus went to McKenzie. Chicago and Wyoming ain't no joke.

[@bergieade]

What a great interview. Always good to see the other side of you, gentlemen. Thank you for the years of your dedication to your trade. Enjoy your retirement.

[@christinebryant8354]

What up doe! Great interview with the 🚌 I love ❤️ the story of Mom & Dad because that’s exactly how Detroit parents were. They don’t care how money 💰 you got in your pocket or how grown you think you are they still in charge 😂 we had some great parents back in the day. Detroit eastside Kettering C/O 86 💙 I-94 & Van Dyke.

[@Raheem0830]

Give props to The Bus shouting out the hometown guy Jeff Burris. And I got that Bettis jersey. Steeler Nation 4 life

[@candicescott8214]

My daddy was a HUGE Steelers fan and he LOVED The Bus!

[@NoteKeys]

THE BUS! Greatest era of football!

[@Webb_BK]

Yoooo 😂 Jerome is funny as hell. Especially during the fumble story.

[@Long_Wud]

Bussy is crazy work

[@johnanthony7494]

*** Another Awesome Show Fellas 💯✌️🙏🏈👍💜

[@jlmac39]

My late mother used to bowl with Jerome's mom, the whole family is just plain ole "good people". Jerome is a good bowler as well!!

[@Mountainastronomy42]

I remember talking with Lou Holtz for two hours in Iraq. it was mostly about Bettis. I became a fan in his last year at Notre Dame against Purdue when he wore #6.

[@shumonbrown5229]

Why did I enjoy this interview so much...I mean, really enjoyed it?!!! ... One Love to the PiVOT !!!

[@roddollaz]

When the Steelers had The Bus , Duce Staley and Fumatumaafala tht backfield was lethal and I think Amos Zeorore *spell check also 🖤💛🖤💛

[@orlandoseanpittman240]

My Favorite Steelers! #36 The Bus!!!!!!! Thank you sir!

[@tpa6laf]

This is why I love this podcast. 💪🏾💪🏾💪🏾

[@BarLadyy]

So, as a NYG fan, to make myself feel better each season since Eli retired, I watch our winning SBs and the Steelers winning SBs (ex-hubby is a fan and it’s my 2nd to root for)…..guess I have a game to watch….again. 🖤💛🚌

[@Juice256]

Steelers Nation!!!!!! Stand up

[@anthonycampbell198]

Bus my man i went to your 98 new years eve party u was on crutches with destiny child performance there ill never forget that plus a big steelers fan 👍🏾👍🏾

[@gemsandstones]

So thankful for this podcast and this episode! I really enjoyed hearing Jerome speak and share his experiences!

[@lawrencedaniels555]

I remember taking a picture next to his bus at the Reggie McKenzie football camp in Highland Park. JB is Detroit through and through.

[@kayjay5143]

Another GREAT ONE! I’m so proud of you guys! I LOVED it!

[@Terrible_Terry]

My favorite Steelers running back of all time next to Leveon and Rashard Mendenhall

[@kingarcy36]

Jamal Lewis next keep the legendary big backs going

[@TheUrbanGeekinTECH]

Dope Interview, Blessings!

[@trizzo5147]

This just reminds me of how great the NFL was back when this man was playing

[@MrBAllison360]

Great interview! Watched this man play growing up a HUGE reason why I am a FAN! Glad to see he is doing well

[@fguanilo27]

NFL Glory Betis man, great episode, funny as hell lmao!

[@williamhunt2362]

Natrone Means Bizzness!!!! My favorite! Respect to Bettis! Years of the big running backs were too cool for school!

[@judahsingleton3217]

Big respect my pops favorite Steelers THE BUS 🙌

[@bradfordwatson322]

👏🏾Jerome Bettis!! Great running back; better Man!! Great interview!!👏🏾👊🏾

[@constanceelise2986]

Great interview!! Thanks Jerome!!! Love ❤️ you Ryan, Fred and Channing!!

[@willieanderson8570]

412 stand up! HERE WE GO!

[@kennethyoung4892]

This was another great podcast