Jerome Bettis Sr. scored his final three touchdowns for Notre Dame football in the 1993 Cotton Bowl Classic, helping the Fighting Irish earn a 28-3 victory over Texas A&M and capping off a 10-1-1 season under the legendary Lou Holtz. Almost 34 years later, the retired running back watched his son record the first TD of his college career.

Jerome Bettis Jr. gained separation during Saturday's 35-13 win versus Navy and linked up with CJ Carr for a 31-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter. Although he plays a different position than his father, the redshirt freshman wide receiver still sent Notre Dame back in time with a successful showing in Foxborough, Massachusetts' Gillette Stadium.

First-career touchdown for Bettis Jr. 🙌#GoIrish☘️ | @jeromebettisjr

📺: ABC pic.twitter.com/F3uirsfnvb

— Notre Dame Football (@NDFootball) October 31, 2026

Bettis finished the day with a team-high six receptions for 78 yards. Even though he scored in a blowout, this performance may be strong enough to warrant more opportunities going forward. Entering this annual clash with the Midshipmen, the 6-foot-2 Georgia native had only four catches for 92 yards. He lost a chunk of his spring due to a foot injury but should now move through the remainder of the campaign with added confidence.

His father is surely feeling proud and nostalgic after this milestone achievement.

Article Continues Below

Jerome Bettis Sr. flourished as a regular member of the Fighting Irish offense, racking up 2,226 scrimmage yards and 32 total TDs during the 1991 and 1992 seasons. He then posted a Hall of Fame NFL career with the Pittsburgh Steelers, riding off into the sunset after celebrating a Super Bowl 40 victory over the Seattle Seahawks. “The Bus” is now enjoying his son's football journey, which took a notable step forward on Halloween.

Notre Dame football (7-1) will need all the firepower it can muster when it faces No. 1-ranked Miami (7-0) next Saturday. Perhaps Jerome Bettis Jr. just earned himself some extra snaps. Stay tuned.