Jerome Bettis is a humble man, realizing just how fortunate he was to survive growing up in a Detroit ghetto, living next to a crack house. In “The Bus,” Bettis shares stories of witnessing violence in his community. He became determined to utilize his football skills to earn an athletic scholarship, recognizing that his parent’s wouldn’t be able to pay his college tuition. Despite growing up a serious youth bowler, he quickly realized his future would be on a gridiron.
Bettis admits to stealing from a grocery store in his childhood days, and later selling drugs. “The Bus” benefited greatly from two loving parents, learning the importance of hard work from his father, who he considers his hero.
On the football field, Bettis turned heads, and became the second high rated Michigan football player being recruited by college football’s powerhouses. Despite growing up in Michigan, and being recruited by the University of Michigan, Bettis feel in love with Oklahoma. However, with the Sooners facing probation from the NCAA, his father eliminated Oklahoma from consideration. In “The Bus,” Bettis explains his decision to accept a scholarship from Notre Dame. Bettis also reveals the origins of “The Bus” nickname, even though he was called “Big Daddy” as a golden domer.
The future hall of famer was drafted by the Los Angeles Rams, and despite winning rookie of the year honors, he would eventually be traded to the Pittsburgh Steelers. Bettis visits the infamous coin flip in Detroit, where the referee said he called “heads” even though he clearly yells “tails.” “The Bus” contemplated retirement, but his teammates convinced him to play one final season. He became motivated to led his team to the Super Bowl, which was held in his hometown of Detroit.
I enjoyed Bettis’ honesty in reliving his football days, and sharing his many fascinating stories. In the book, Bettis talks about taking a pay cut to remain a Steeler, playing through pain and injuries, and being booed by the fans. Bettis discusses the decision that embarrassed him as a Notre Dame graduate. He also reviews his courtship with his future bride, dealing with losing his father, a talks life after football.
I thoroughly enjoyed “The Bus,” and recommend it to all football fans.
By: Jerome Bettis, Gene Wojciechowski
Narrated by: Cary Hite
Length: 8 hrs and 26 mins
Release date: 07-26-22
Publisher: Blackstone Publishing