The Miami Dolphins, an NFL franchise, were established in 1965 by Joseph Robbie and actor Danny Thomas. They began playing in 1966 as part of the American Football League (AFL) before joining the NFL in 1970 after the AFL-NFL merger. Based in Miami, Florida, the Dolphins play home games at Hard Rock Stadium.
Under legendary coach Don Shula, who joined in 1970, the Dolphins became a powerhouse. In 1972, they achieved the only perfect season in NFL history, finishing 17-0 and winning Super Bowl VII. The following year, they repeated as champions, claiming Super Bowl VIII. Shula’s tenure, which lasted until 1995, established the team as one of the league’s most consistent contenders.
The 1980s were highlighted by the arrival of quarterback Dan Marino, who set numerous passing records and became one of the NFL’s all-time greats. Despite Marino’s brilliance, the Dolphins failed to secure another Super Bowl during his era.
Since then, the Dolphins have experienced fluctuating fortunes, occasionally reaching the playoffs but struggling to recapture their former dominance. With a rich history and dedicated fanbase, the team remains a cornerstone of the NFL, striving to add to its legacy.
