NFL

The Miami Dolphins are another relatively young franchise in comparison with the others in the NFL but have compiled a successful history in their short life. In 1967 the Dolphins were born and quickly reached the pinnacle of success in six seasons going undefeated in 1972. With a 17-0 record, the Dolphins were the last team to go undefeated in the NFL by defeating the Washington Redskins 14-7 in Super Bowl VII. At the time there were only fourteen regular season games compared to sixteen currently. The last team who came close to the mark was the 2007 New England Patriots going 16-0 in the regular season and 18-1 overall losing in Super Bowl XLII to the New York Giants 17-14in the most watched Super Bowl of all-time. The great fan support of the franchise set the attendance record with over 74,000 season ticket holders in 1973.The players who helped reach that perfect season were quarterback Bob Griese, running back Larry Csonka, and guard Larry Little. Coach Don Shula also played a major role in the teams success leading his team to three straight AFC Championship games in 1971, 1972, and 1973 with wins in Super Bowls VII & VIII. From 1970-1974 Don Shula compiled a record of 65-15-1 which was the beginnings of him reaching the all-time wins mark for an NFL coach at 324 in 1993. Since 1970 the Dolphins have won 11 AFC east Division titles and five AFC Championships but the last time was in 1984.

Quarterback Dan Marino was drafted in 1983 and is one the greatest quarterbacks of all-time setting numerous passing records. Dan Marino only reached the Super Bowl once in his illustrious career in 1985 losing to the San Francisco 49ers and their dynasty 38-16. The same year Dan Marino would set the all-time touchdown record in a single season with 48 which has been broken only by two touchdowns ever since, Peyton Manning with 49 in 2004 and Tom Brady with 50 in 2007. At one time Dan Marino held the records for most career touchdowns, passing completions, passing attempts, and passing yards. The Dolphins were constantly in the playoff picture every year with Dan Marino as quarterback but could not get that illusive Super Bowl victory. Football is the ultimate team sport and one man can’t lead a team to a Super Bowl championship. Dan Marino, who played is whole career as a member of the Miami Dolphins, was inducted in the Football Hall of Fame in 2005.

The Miami Dolphins were a league worse 1-15 in the 2007 season and are in the state of renewal and look to improve their status in the NFL once again. Being they are in the same division as the New England Patriots, victories have been minimal is years past with the Patriots dominating. While the successful years of the Shula/Marino seem like they are 100 years ago, the Dolphins can improve on a 1-15 season. All things considering, the Dolphins have reached more success then many of the NFL franchises who have been around longer in the league.