Bill Parcells's Success and Achievements in Timeline

A success timeline featuring the most significant achievements of Bill Parcells.

Bill Parcells, nicknamed "the Big Tuna," is a highly successful former NFL head coach, known for his ability to turn struggling franchises into playoff contenders. He coached for 19 seasons, most notably leading the New York Giants to two Super Bowl victories (1983-1990). Parcells holds the distinction of being the only NFL coach to guide four different teams (Giants, Patriots, Jets, Cowboys) to the playoffs, and three to a conference championship game, solidifying his legacy as a transformative figure in professional football.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles

1961: Playoff Appearance

The Giants had their first back-to-back playoff appearances since 1961-1963.

1963: Playoff Appearance

The Giants had their first back-to-back playoff appearances since 1961-1963.

1984: Simms Returns as Starter

In 1984, Bill Parcells made a finally healthy Phil Simms the starter again and replaced half the roster. The team's record improved to 9–7.

1986: Led Giants to Super Bowl XXI

In 1986, Bill Parcells led the Giants to a franchise-best 14–2 record and their first Super Bowl, Super Bowl XXI. Parcells is credited as the first coach to be doused with Gatorade at the end of a Super Bowl, which led to a Super Bowl tradition.

1986: Division Title

In 1986, Bill Parcells secured a division title with the Giants.

1989: Division Title

In 1989, Bill Parcells secured a division title with the Giants.

1990: Second Super Bowl Victory

In 1990, Bill Parcells led the Giants to their second Super Bowl victory, Super Bowl XXV, defeating the Buffalo Bills 20-19. He retired from football after this Super Bowl due to health problems.

1990: Division Title

In 1990, Bill Parcells secured a division title with the Giants.

1996: Division Title

In 1996, Bill Parcells guided the Patriots to their first division title in 11 years and a trip to Super Bowl XXXI, where they lost to the Green Bay Packers.

1999: Indianapolis Colts improvement

The 1999 Indianapolis Colts was one of two teams in NFL history to accomplish a 10-game turnaround

2001: Dolphins make playoffs

In 2001, the Dolphins made the playoffs for the first time since 2001

2003: First season with the Cowboys

In 2003, Bill Parcells' first season with the Cowboys, he led them to the playoffs with a 10–6 record, making him the first head coach in NFL history to guide four teams to the playoffs. They lost to the Carolina Panthers in the Wild Card round.

2008: Dolphins Finish as AFC East Champions

The Dolphins finished the 2008 season 11–5 and became AFC East champions. They had a 10-game improvement from the previous season. However, they were defeated in the first round by the Baltimore Ravens.