He was a four-year starter at defensive back, playing as a roverback, a hybrid of the strong safety and linebacker positions.
His biggest moment at Ohio State was a game-winning touchdown in his junior year against rival Michigan on November 17, 1979.
After Ohio State linebacker Jim Laughlin blocked a punt by Michigan's Brian Virgil, Bell scooped up the football and ran it in 18 yards for a final score of 18–15.
He fostered cooperation with local businesses to provide funding for their employees to start or return to college studies at OSU.
He also worked with the personnel of local Boys & Girls Clubs to develop joint ventures to improve the environment of the neighborhoods near the central campus.