Joique Bell attended college at Wayne State University in Detroit. While pursuing his undergraduate degree, he was also a Wayne State Police Cadet and lead scorer for the Wayne State Warriors football team. A 2010 graduate, he was a driving force for the WSU Warriors. He always showed up ready to win and dominating the field – rushing over 2,000 yards and ranking top 10 in a lot of rushing categories in Division II NCAA history. Along with being a standout in college football, Bell had a warm and friendly smile, coupled with his charm and his regal character, it earned him the title “Mr. Wayne State.” This writer remembers hearing the fans in the crowd chanting and cheering for him and screaming “Bell show” after he scored touchdowns. It’s always delightful to run into him on campus when he visits.
Shortly after the end of the 2010 football season, Bell was listed as an un-drafted free agent for the Buffalo Bills. Following a few short stints with other NFL teams – Philadelphia Eagles, Indianapolis Colts and New Orleans Saints – it seems that Bell has found a home, in his home state, with the Detroit Lions. Bell’s relentless faith, hardwork and determination have helped solidify a career in the NFL. He holds the No. 2 spot on the Lions depth chart, right behind the sensational Reggie Bush.
While it’s still pretty early in the season, it appears that Bell is a very serviceable player and a powerful running back. He’s scored three touchdowns this season and has already has 10 broken tackles, which puts him in the top 10 for broken tackles for running backs. You have to see him in action. Recently, while watching Sunday Night Football, I witnessed the enthusiastic and eager Bell jump up on the ledge of the stands and starte a chant with the fans screaming “A-Yo” – lyrics from a popular 90’s rap. The crowd went wild and joined right in waving their hands back and forth.
Here’s to a great season for Bell and the Lions.
