Challenges Faced by Don Shula: Obstacles and Turning Points

A closer look at the defining struggles that shaped Don Shula's life and career.

Don Shula (1930-2020) was a highly successful American football coach and player. He spent seven seasons as a defensive back in the NFL, but is most recognized for his remarkable coaching career from 1963 to 1995. Shula is most known for coaching the Miami Dolphins, leading them to an undefeated season in 1972, a feat unmatched in NFL history. He holds the NFL record for most career wins as a head coach with 328. His leadership and strategic brilliance made him one of the most respected and influential figures in the sport.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Legacy & Impact

1955: Five Interceptions and Injury

In 1955, Shula had five interceptions again, but missed the final three games of the season due to a broken jaw suffered in a game against the Los Angeles Rams.

1964: NFL Championship Game Loss

In 1964, Don Shula faced an upset loss in the NFL Championship Game while coaching the Colts.

1965: Lost Playoff Game to Green Bay Packers

In 1965, the Colts lost a playoff game to the Green Bay Packers in sudden-death overtime after tying for the best record in the NFL West, preventing them from playing in the championship game.

1968: Unitas Injured, Morrall Takes Over

In 1968, Johnny Unitas's elbow injury led to Earl Morrall becoming the starting quarterback for the Colts. Despite initial low expectations, Morrall led the team to a successful season, with Unitas's attempts to return being hampered by recurring injury issues. The Colts finished with a 13-1 record but ultimately lost Super Bowl III to the New York Jets.

1969: Final Season with the Colts

In 1969, Don Shula's last season as head coach of the Colts resulted in an 8–5–1 record, failing to reach the playoffs. This marked the end of his tenure in Baltimore.

1969: Dolphins Struggles Before Shula

In 1969, prior to Shula's arrival, the Dolphins had not won more than five games in any season under coach George Wilson, highlighting the team's struggles.

1974: AFC Divisional Playoff Loss

In 1974, the Miami Dolphins lost to the Oakland Raiders 28–26 in an AFC divisional playoff game, known as The Sea of Hands play, ending their chance for a third consecutive Super Bowl title.

1975: Team Decimation due to World Football League

In 1975, the Dolphins were significantly impacted by the emergence of the World Football League, leading to the departure of key players like Larry Csonka, Paul Warfield, and Jim Kiick to the Memphis Southmen.

1976: Losing Season

In 1976, the Miami Dolphins had a losing season with a 6–8 record.

1981: "The Epic in Miami" Playoff Loss

In 1981, the Miami Dolphins lost in the first round of the playoffs to the San Diego Chargers in a double-overtime game known as "The Epic in Miami".

1982: Super Bowl Loss to the Redskins

In 1982, Don Shula's Miami Dolphins made it to the Super Bowl during the strike-shortened season but lost to the Washington Redskins. The defense was known as the "Killer Bees".

1984: Super Bowl Loss and Subsequent Seasons

After the Super Bowl loss in 1984, Don Shula's teams experienced only one losing season but never returned to the Super Bowl.

1984: Super Bowl Appearance and Loss

In 1984, led by Dan Marino, the Miami Dolphins reached the Super Bowl but lost to the San Francisco 49ers. Marino set a record with 5,084 passing yards and 48 touchdown passes.