How many Super Bowls has Don Shula Won?

By Jason Bolton December 10, 2023 09:14

Don Shula, a legendary figure in American football, is widely regarded as one of the greatest coaches in NFL history. With an illustrious career spanning over three decades, Shula achieved remarkable success, including multiple Super Bowl victories. In this article, we will explore the number of Super Bowls Don Shula won and delve into his extraordinary achievements as a coach.

Early Career and Rise to Prominence

Don Shula began his coaching career in 1960 as an assistant coach for the Detroit Lions. In 1963, he was appointed the head coach of the Baltimore Colts. Under his guidance, the Colts experienced immediate success, reaching the NFL Championship Game in 1964. Although they lost that game, Shula's coaching abilities were clearly evident.

Super Bowl Victories

Super Bowl III

In 1969, Shula led the Colts to a Super Bowl victory in Super Bowl III. The Colts dominated the regular season and were considered favorites going into the game against the New York Jets. However, they were stunned by the Jets' strong performance and were defeated by a score of 16-7.

Super Bowl VII

Shula's next Super Bowl victory came in 1973 when he was coaching the Miami Dolphins. The Dolphins had a perfect regular season, winning all 14 games, and went on to face the Washington Redskins in Super Bowl VII. The Dolphins' defense was exceptional, and they secured a 14-7 victory, making them the only team to complete a perfect season.

Super Bowl VIII

The following year, in 1974, Shula and the Miami Dolphins returned to the Super Bowl and emerged victorious once again. They faced the Minnesota Vikings in Super Bowl VIII and dominated the game, winning 24-7. With this victory, Shula became the first coach to win back-to-back Super Bowls.

Super Bowl Losses

Super Bowl III

While Don Shula experienced victory in Super Bowl III, he also tasted defeat on multiple occasions. In addition to the aforementioned loss to the New York Jets, he suffered two more Super Bowl defeats during his coaching career.

Super Bowl VI

In 1972, the Miami Dolphins made it to Super Bowl VI but were unable to secure the victory. They faced the Dallas Cowboys, who proved to be too strong, winning the game 24-3. Despite the loss, Shula's coaching prowess was evident, as his team had an impressive season leading up to the Super Bowl.

Super Bowl XVII

Shula's final Super Bowl appearance came in 1983, again with the Miami Dolphins. They faced the Washington Redskins in Super Bowl XVII but were unable to secure the win, losing by a score of 27-17. Despite the defeat, Shula's legacy as an exceptional coach remained intact.

Don Shula, with his remarkable coaching career, left an indelible mark on the NFL. Winning multiple Super Bowls and leading his teams to great success, Shula cemented his status as one of the greatest coaches in football history. While he experienced both victory and defeat on the grandest stage, his contributions to the sport and his ability to mold winning teams will always be remembered. Don Shula's legacy as a coaching icon continues to inspire and influence the game of football to this day.