The Miami Dolphins are one of the most storied franchises in NFL history, but despite their success, they have had their fair share of Super Bowl shortfalls. Over the years, the Dolphins have come close to winning the ultimate prize, but for various reasons, they’ve fallen short in some heartbreaking ways. Here are the 10 Most Disappointing Dolphins Super Bowl Shortfalls:
1. Super Bowl VI (1971) – Dolphins vs. Cowboys
The 1971 Miami Dolphins were a dominant force in the NFL, finishing the regular season with a 10-3-1 record and boasting an incredible roster. Quarterback Bob Griese, running back Larry Csonka, and wide receiver Paul Warfield were among the team’s stars. However, they came up short in their first Super Bowl appearance, losing 24-3 to the Dallas Cowboys.
The Dolphins’ offense struggled mightily in the game, with the Cowboys’ defense stifling them throughout. The Cowboys, led by quarterback Roger Staubach, controlled the game from start to finish, and Miami’s inability to score a touchdown was a massive disappointment for a team that had been expected to compete at the highest level.
2. Super Bowl XVII (1982) – Dolphins vs. Washington
The 1982 Miami Dolphins were primed for greatness, led by legendary quarterback Dan Marino in just his second season. Marino had a career year, throwing for 5,000 yards and 48 touchdowns. But despite their incredible offense, the Dolphins lost to the Washington Redskins in Super Bowl XVII, 27-17.
Marino’s high-flying passing attack was slowed down by Washington’s defense, and the Dolphins could not stop Washington’s ground game, which was led by running back John Riggins. Riggins famously ran for a 43-yard touchdown to seal the game, and the Dolphins’ dreams of a Super Bowl victory were dashed.
3. Super Bowl VI (1971) – Dolphins vs. Cowboys
In the 1971 season, the Dolphins were favorites to win the Super Bowl, but it was an unfortunate reality when they lost to the Dallas Cowboys. With the game at a 10-0 deficit, the Miami Dolphins could not get past the mighty Dallas defense which shut them down at almost every turn.
4. Super Bowl VIII (1974) – Dolphins
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