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30 Facts About Dolphins Vs. Steelers

Lorette Westfall

Written by Lorette Westfall

Published: 06 Jan 2026

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Source: Sbnation.com

Are you ready to dive into the thrilling world of NFL rivalries? The Dolphins vs. Steelers matchup is one of the most exciting and historic rivalries in football. These two teams have clashed numerous times, creating unforgettable moments and intense battles on the field. From legendary players to iconic games, the history between the Miami Dolphins and the Pittsburgh Steelers is rich with drama and excitement. Whether you're a die-hard fan or new to the sport, you'll find these 30 facts about the Dolphins vs. Steelers rivalry both fascinating and informative. Buckle up as we explore the highlights, stats, and stories that make this rivalry one for the ages!

Table of Contents
01Dolphins vs. Steelers: A Historic Rivalry
02Memorable Games
03Legendary Players
04Coaching Legends
05Records and Achievements
06Fan Bases and Culture
07Modern Era
08Off the Field
09Final Thoughts on Dolphins vs. Steelers

Dolphins vs. Steelers: A Historic Rivalry

The Miami Dolphins and Pittsburgh Steelers have a storied history in the NFL. These two teams have faced off numerous times, creating memorable moments and intense matchups. Here are some fascinating facts about their rivalry.

  1. The Dolphins and Steelers first met on November 2, 1970. The Steelers won 21-10.

  2. Miami's first victory over Pittsburgh came on October 24, 1971, with a 24-21 win.

  3. The teams have met 30 times in the regular season, with the Dolphins leading the series 14-13-3.

  4. In the playoffs, the Steelers hold a 3-1 advantage over the Dolphins.

Memorable Games

Certain games between these two teams have left a lasting impact on fans and the NFL.

  1. The 1972 AFC Championship Game saw the Dolphins defeat the Steelers 21-17, propelling Miami to their first Super Bowl.

  2. In 1984, Dan Marino led the Dolphins to a 31-7 victory over the Steelers in the AFC Championship Game, sending Miami to Super Bowl XIX.

  3. The 2004 Monday Night Football game was played in a torrential downpour, with the Steelers winning 3-0 in one of the lowest-scoring games in MNF history.

  4. In 2016, the Dolphins upset the Steelers 30-15, with Jay Ajayi rushing for 204 yards and two touchdowns.

Legendary Players

Both teams have had their share of legendary players who have made significant contributions to the rivalry.

  1. Dan Marino, a Hall of Fame quarterback, played his entire career with the Dolphins and faced the Steelers multiple times.

  2. Terry Bradshaw, the Steelers' Hall of Fame quarterback, led Pittsburgh to four Super Bowl titles and had several key games against Miami.

  3. Larry Csonka, a powerful fullback for the Dolphins, was instrumental in Miami's success in the 1970s.

  4. "Mean" Joe Greene, a dominant defensive tackle for the Steelers, was a key figure in Pittsburgh's Steel Curtain defense.

Coaching Legends

The rivalry has also featured some of the greatest coaches in NFL history.

  1. Don Shula, the winningest coach in NFL history, led the Dolphins from 1970 to 1995.

  2. Chuck Noll, who coached the Steelers from 1969 to 1991, won four Super Bowls with Pittsburgh.

  3. Jimmy Johnson, who coached the Dolphins from 1996 to 1999, had several memorable games against the Steelers.

  4. Bill Cowher, who led the Steelers from 1992 to 2006, faced the Dolphins in several key matchups.

Records and Achievements

Both teams have set numerous records and achieved significant milestones over the years.

  1. The Dolphins completed the only perfect season in NFL history in 1972, finishing 17-0.

  2. The Steelers have won six Super Bowl titles, the most in NFL history.

  3. Miami's Dan Marino held the record for most career passing yards (61,361) until 2007.

  4. Pittsburgh's Franco Harris is famous for the "Immaculate Reception," one of the most iconic plays in NFL history.

Fan Bases and Culture

The passionate fan bases of both teams add to the intensity of the rivalry.

  1. Dolphins fans are known for their "Fins Up" cheer and vibrant tailgating culture.

  2. Steelers fans, known as the "Steeler Nation," are famous for waving their Terrible Towels at games.

  3. Miami's Hard Rock Stadium is known for its lively atmosphere and unique architecture.

  4. Pittsburgh's Heinz Field is renowned for its raucous crowd and challenging weather conditions.

Modern Era

The rivalry continues to evolve in the modern era, with new players and coaches adding to the legacy.

  1. In 2019, the Dolphins traded safety Minkah Fitzpatrick to the Steelers, where he became an All-Pro player.

  2. The 2020 matchup saw the Steelers defeat the Dolphins 27-14, with Ben Roethlisberger throwing for 320 yards and two touchdowns.

  3. Miami's Tua Tagovailoa, a promising young quarterback, represents the future of the Dolphins' offense.

  4. Pittsburgh's T.J. Watt, one of the league's top pass rushers, has become a key player in the Steelers' defense.

Off the Field

The rivalry extends beyond the gridiron, with both teams making significant contributions to their communities.

  1. The Dolphins' "Football Unites" program promotes diversity and inclusion in South Florida.

  2. The Steelers' "Community Caring Team" engages in numerous charitable activities in the Pittsburgh area.

Final Thoughts on Dolphins vs. Steelers

Dolphins and Steelers fans are some of the most passionate in the NFL. Both teams have rich histories, legendary players, and unforgettable moments. The Dolphins, known for their perfect season in 1972, have a legacy of strong defenses and iconic quarterbacks like Dan Marino. The Steelers, with their six Super Bowl titles, boast a reputation for tough, hard-nosed football and a "Steel Curtain" defense.

Whether you're a fan of the Dolphins' sunny Miami vibe or the Steelers' gritty Pittsburgh spirit, both teams offer something special. Their matchups are always thrilling, filled with intense plays and dramatic finishes. As you follow these teams, remember the unique qualities that make each one great. Enjoy the games, the rivalries, and the camaraderie that comes with being a fan. Football is more than just a sport; it's a shared experience that brings people together.

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