Steelers top 30 moments in franchise history
By Kim Myers
The Bus ran over Urlacher
Jan 31, 2015; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers former running back Jerome Bettis reacts during a press conference to introduce the 2015 Pro Football Hall of Fame inductees at Symphony Hall. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
In early December of 2005 the Steelers were clinging to slim playoff hopes and knew that they had to win out to get a legitimate shot at the NFL post-season. Just after losing three straight the Steelers hosted the Chicago Bears, who at the time had the NFL’s top-rated defense.
The Bears were led by their defensive leader, linebacker Brian Urlacher, who was in the prime of his career. On the other side of the ball was Jerome Bettis, in his 13th season in the league he was obviously at the end of his career.
Unfortunately, however, for Urlacher, the snow tires were on “The Bus” that snowy day in December and Bettis ran for a season-high 101 rushing yards and scored two touchdowns in one of his most memorable performances.
On one of his trips to the end zone Bettis collided with Urlacher but Bettis kept on going, with Urlacher hanging onto him, all the way to the end zone.
"“He didn’t let go. But I’ve made a living carrying people. That’s why they call me ‘The Bus.’” – Jerome Bettis"
Bettis postarized Urlacher in a moment that beautifully captured what Jerome Bettis’ career was all about. Nothing says “Steelers football” quite like a running back bowling over a linebacker with snow falling all around them.
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