What Is 1970 Miami Dolphins football team

Overview

The 1970 Miami Dolphins represented a turning point in franchise history, transitioning from expansion team struggles to legitimate NFL contender status. Under the leadership of head coach Don Shula, who joined the team in 1970 after leaving the Baltimore Colts, the Dolphins posted a 10–3–1 record, their first winning season since entering the league in 1966.

This season marked the beginning of a dominant era that would peak with the perfect 1972 season. The 1970 campaign was also notable for being the first after the AFL-NFL merger, making the Dolphins part of the newly formed American Football Conference (AFC). Their strong performance earned them a playoff berth and set the tone for future success.

• Don Shula took over as head coach in 1970, bringing a disciplined approach that transformed the team’s culture and performance.
• The Dolphins finished first in the AFC East with a 10–3–1 record, a significant improvement from their previous 3–11 season.
• They defeated the Kansas City Chiefs 27–24 in the 1970 AFC Divisional Playoffs, marking their first-ever playoff win.
• Quarterback Bob Griese threw for 1,853 yards and 14 touchdowns, establishing himself as a reliable leader under center.
• The defense, anchored by players like Bill Stanfill and Nick Buoniconti, allowed only 14.5 points per game on average.

How It Works

The success of the 1970 Miami Dolphins can be attributed to strategic coaching, player development, and a cohesive team structure. Shula instilled a disciplined, defense-first philosophy while maximizing offensive talent through balanced play-calling and game planning.

• Defensive Discipline: The Dolphins employed a 3-4 defensive scheme that emphasized gap control and forced turnovers, leading to a league-low 14.5 points allowed per game.
• Quarterback Leadership:Bob Griese managed games efficiently, throwing 14 touchdowns against just 7 interceptions, showcasing smart decision-making.
• Running Game: Fullback Larry Csonka rushed for 830 yards and 6 touchdowns, providing a punishing ground attack that controlled the clock.
• Special Teams: Kicker Garo Yepremian converted 18 of 22 field goals, contributing crucial points in close games.
• Playoff Experience: Their victory over the Chiefs was the franchise’s first playoff win, building confidence for future postseason runs.
• Team Chemistry: Shula fostered a strong locker room culture, uniting veterans and young players around a shared goal of sustained excellence.

Comparison at a Glance

Comparing the 1970 Dolphins to other top teams of the era highlights their rising competitiveness:

The Dolphins ranked among the league’s elite in point differential and defensive efficiency. While they fell short of the Super Bowl, losing 21–0 to the Raiders in the Divisional Round, their performance signaled a shift in franchise trajectory. The foundation laid in 1970 enabled the team to reach Super Bowl VII after the 1972 season.

Why It Matters

The 1970 season was a pivotal moment in NFL history, marking the Dolphins’ emergence as a powerhouse. It demonstrated the impact of strong leadership and strategic team-building under Don Shula, whose tenure would define an era.

• The success of the 1970 team validated Don Shula’s coaching philosophy, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest NFL coaches.
• It provided critical playoff experience that helped the team succeed in future postseasons, including their perfect 1972 run.
• The development of players like Bob Griese and Larry Csonka showcased the value of long-term roster investment.
• It elevated the Dolphins from laughingstock to contender, increasing fan engagement and national recognition.
• The season highlighted the importance of defensive consistency, as the unit ranked in the top three in points allowed.
• This season laid the groundwork for the only perfect season in NFL history, culminating in the 1972 championship.

The 1970 Miami Dolphins may not have won a title, but their achievements were instrumental in building one of the most storied franchises in professional football history.