Super Bowl XVII (1983): Washington Redskins Defeat Miami Dolphins 27–17
Super Bowl XVII (1983): Washington Redskins Defeat Miami Dolphins 27–17
Super Bowl XVII was played on January 30, 1983, at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California. The Washington Redskins defeated the Miami Dolphins 27–17 to capture the first Super Bowl championship in franchise history. The victory marked the beginning of a successful era under head coach Joe Gibbs.
After trailing 17–10 in the third quarter, Washington rallied behind a dominant rushing attack and a series of crucial defensive plays. Running back John Riggins delivered one of the most memorable performances in Super Bowl history, helping the Redskins secure the championship.
Key Facts
- Date: January 30, 1983
- Super Bowl: XVII
- Venue: Rose Bowl, Pasadena, California
- Winner: Washington Redskins
- Loser: Miami Dolphins
- Final Score: Washington Redskins 27, Miami Dolphins 17
- Head Coach (Washington): Joe Gibbs
- Head Coach (Miami): Don Shula
- MVP: John Riggins (Washington Redskins)
- Attendance: 103,667
John Riggins’ MVP Performance
John Riggins produced one of the greatest rushing performances in Super Bowl history, carrying the ball 38 times for 166 yards and one touchdown. His famous 43-yard touchdown run on fourth-and-one in the fourth quarter remains one of the most iconic plays in NFL championship history.
The touchdown gave Washington the lead and shifted momentum permanently in the Redskins’ favor as they completed their comeback against the Dolphins.
Joe Gibbs and the Championship Formula
Joe Gibbs guided Washington to its first Super Bowl title by building a team around a powerful offensive line known as “The Hogs,” a relentless rushing attack, and a disciplined defense. The victory established Gibbs as one of the NFL’s premier coaches.
Super Bowl XVII was the first of three Super Bowl championships won by Gibbs during his Hall of Fame career.
Legacy of Super Bowl XVII
The Redskins’ victory ended a championship drought dating back to the 1940 season and marked the start of one of the most successful periods in franchise history. For Miami, the defeat denied Don Shula another Super Bowl title despite another strong season from the Dolphins.
John Riggins’ performance and Washington’s second-half comeback remain defining moments in Super Bowl lore more than four decades later.