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When Pittsburgh Steelers fans think of Jerome Bettis' career, there are many moments which come to mind; however, there is probably one which stands out among the others.
A snow-covered Heinz Field. The Steelers in desperate need to win out their remaining games to make the playoffs. A red hot Chicago Bears team coming to Pittsburgh on an 8-game winning streak. The stage was set for a big game, and the player who produced when it mattered most was none other than No. 36.
Bettis was moved from primary running back to spelling Willie Parker and primarily being used in goal line situations, but on this day Bettis showed some signs of life in what would be his final NFL season by rushing for 101 yards on 17 carries and scoring two touchdowns. All of this en route to a 21-9 victory which would springboard the Steelers into the postseason and becoming the first No. 6 seed to ever win the Super Bowl.
The stats are great, but it was how Bettis got his 101 yards and two touchdowns which was memorable. Brian Urlacher, one of the finest inside linebackers of his time, was on the wrong end of a black and gold school bus barreling down at him. Well, just take a look:
You know, that play was so great, how about a real-time video from the crowd. Dan Krider goes in motion, and the rest is history...
That run seemingly epitomizes Bettis' career. Tough, gritty and amazing agility for a large man. It was fitting this game would be highlighted for Throwback Thursday, as Bettis gets inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame on Saturday.
As Steelers fans embark for Canton, OH to give Bettis his due, everyone who thinks of Jerome Bettis naturally thinks of this play - a play which didn't just define a career or a season, but helped win a championship.