A Parade all-American, Bernstine played in both the East Meets West All-American Game in Orlando and the Iowa Shrine Bowl in 2007; he was a two-time Elite all-state selection by the Des Moines Register (2005, 2006), and is currently the only Railsplitter to do so.

He was a two-time, first-team all-Central Iowa Metro League defensive back (2005-2006), and a second-team selection as a sophomore (2004).

In four seasons, Bernstine saw action in 44 games, starting 11 (all as a senior) and recorded 60 solo tackles and 54 assists; had three tackles for loss, a quarterback sack, and one interception as well as two pass deflections and a fumble recovery; he returned 32 kickoffs for a 23.1-average.

He played in 2007 as a true freshman, was redshirted in 2009 due to an ankle injury during pre-season practice.

During his NFL debut against the New Orleans Saints, he suffered a right knee injury while playing on special teams during a kickoff in the fourth quarter and was carted off the field.

[7] The next day, it was confirmed that Bernstine had torn the anterior, posterior, and medial collateral ligaments in his knee, ending his rookie season.