When Did the Miami Dolphins Win the Super Bowl?

By Sarah Miller · December 22, 2029

The Miami Dolphins won the Super Bowl twice, claiming victory in Super Bowl VII (1973) and Super Bowl VIII (1974), making them one of only a few teams to win back-to-back championships. These wins remain the franchise's only Super Bowl titles to date.

History of the Miami Dolphins' Super Bowl Wins

The Miami Dolphins are best known for their perfect season and consecutive Super Bowl victories in the early 1970s. Under the leadership of head coach Don Shula and key players like Bob Griese, Larry Csonka, and Paul Warfield, the Dolphins achieved legendary status in NFL history.

Super Bowl VII: The Perfect Season (1972)

Date: January 14, 1973
Opponent: Washington Redskins
Final Score: 14–7
Location: Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum
MVP: Jake Scott (Safety)

This game concluded the NFL's first and only perfect 17-0 season. The Dolphins completed a flawless campaign, winning all 14 regular-season games, three playoff games, and the Super Bowl. Their defense was dominant, and quarterback Bob Griese managed the game efficiently despite missing part of the season due to injury.

Super Bowl VIII: Back-to-Back Glory (1973 Season)

Date: January 13, 1974
Opponent: Minnesota Vikings
Final Score: 24–7
Location: Rice Stadium, Houston, Texas
MVP: Larry Csonka (Running Back)

In this rematch of the 1970 AFL-NFL merger era dominance, the Dolphins relied on a powerful running game. Larry Csonka rushed for 145 yards and two touchdowns, leading Miami to a decisive win. This victory cemented their legacy as one of the greatest teams in NFL history.

Key Players from the Championship Teams

The success of the Dolphins in the early 1970s was built on a balanced team with standout performers on both offense and defense.

Offensive Standouts

Bob Griese: Quarterback who provided leadership and precision passing.
Larry Csonka: Powerful fullback and Super Bowl VIII MVP.
Jim Kiick & Mercury Morris: Formed a dynamic running duo; Morris rushed for over 1,000 yards in 1972.
Paul Warfield: Elite deep threat and reliable receiver.

Defensive Leaders

Nick Buoniconti: Middle linebacker and defensive signal-caller.
Jake Scott: Safety and Super Bowl VII MVP, known for his ball-hawking skills.
Bill Stanfill: Dominant defensive end who pressured quarterbacks consistently.

Super Bowl	Date	Opponent	Score	MVP	Attendance
Super Bowl VII	January 14, 1973	Washington Redskins	14–7	Jake Scott	90,182
Super Bowl VIII	January 13, 1974	Minnesota Vikings	24–7	Larry Csonka	75,129

Table data source:1, 2

The data shows the Dolphins dominated their opponents in both Super Bowl appearances, allowing just 7 points per game. Their strong rushing attack and elite defense were central to their success. Despite lower attendance in Super Bowl VIII, the team's performance remained at peak level.

Why Haven’t the Dolphins Won Another Super Bowl?

Since their 1974 victory, the Dolphins have not returned to the Super Bowl. Several factors contribute to this drought:

Lack of sustained quarterback excellence post-Griese era
Increased league parity due to salary cap and free agency
Strong competition from AFC East rivals like Patriots and Bills
Multiple coaching changes and inconsistent front-office decisions

Despite frequent playoff appearances in the 1980s and 1990s, including several AFC Championship games, the team has fallen short of another title shot.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Miami Dolphins and the Super Bowl

How many Super Bowls have the Miami Dolphins won?

The Miami Dolphins have won two Super Bowls: Super Bowl VII and Super Bowl VIII, both in the early 1970s. These victories remain the only Super Bowl titles in franchise history.

When was the last time the Dolphins played in the Super Bowl?

The last time the Miami Dolphins appeared in the Super Bowl was Super Bowl VIII on January 13, 1974. They defeated the Minnesota Vikings 24–7 to secure their second consecutive championship.

Who was the MVP of the Dolphins' Super Bowl wins?

Jake Scott was named MVP of Super Bowl VII after recording two interceptions. In Super Bowl VIII, running back Larry Csonka earned MVP honors with 145 rushing yards and two touchdowns.

Did the Miami Dolphins ever have a perfect season?

Yes, the 1972 Miami Dolphins completed the only perfect season in NFL history, finishing 17–0 overall. They won all 14 regular-season games and three playoff games, culminating in a Super Bowl VII victory.

Have the Dolphins reached the Super Bowl since the 1970s?

No, the Dolphins have not returned to the Super Bowl since winning Super Bowl VIII in 1974. They came close in the late 1980s and early 1990s but lost in the AFC Championship Game multiple times.