Larry Csonka, one of the most iconic fullbacks in NFL history, is known for his bruising style, relentless determination, and unmatched toughness. His career spanned some of the most pivotal years in the Miami Dolphins’ legacy. Here are the 15 greatest Larry Csonka game moments, which made him one of the NFL’s most fearsome runners.
1969 Game vs. Buffalo Bills
In the 1969 game against the Buffalo Bills, Larry Csonka rushed for 95 yards on 22 carries. This performance contributed to the Dolphins’ narrow 24-23 victory at the Miami Orange Bowl. It also helped his team maintain ball control and set the tone of the game.
1970 AFC Divisional Playoff Game vs. Oakland Raiders
A year later, at the AFC Divisional Playoff Game against the Oakland Raiders, Csonka helped the Miami Dolphins’ offensive efforts. Despite the Dolphins losing the game 21-14, Csonka rushed for 85 yards on 16 carries, including a critical 29-yard run.
1971 Game vs. Baltimore Colts
Larry also led the Miami Dolphins to victory against the Baltimore Colts on December 11, 1971. In this game, he carried the ball 11 times for 44 yards, maintaining possession and controlling the game’s tempo. The Dolphins secured a hard-fought 24-14 win against the Colts.
Super Bowl VI (1972) vs. Dallas Cowboys
On January 16, 1972, despite losing to the Dallas Cowboys in Super Bowl VI, Csonka displayed some excellent play. As the Miami’ Dolphins’ fullback, he established the Dolphins’ running game and rushed for 12 yards on his first carry. He rushed for over 1,000 yards in that season.
1972 Undefeated Season Game vs. New York Jets
The Miami Dolphins recorded an undefeated season in 1972. In their game against the New York Jets on October 8, 1972, Csonka supported the Dolphins in achieving a 27-17 victory. He scored a vital touchdown that tied the game, enabling the Dolphins to mark a perfect season.
AFC Championship Game (1972) vs. Pittsburgh Steelers
Larry’s contributions were pivotal in the 1972 AFC Championship Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Miami Dolphins’ victory propelled them to Super Bowl VII. Csonka scored a touchdown that gave Miami a lead, enabling them to win despite facing a tough Steelers defense.
Super Bowl VII (1973) vs. Washington Redskins
The Super Bowl VII game against the Washington Redskins is another unforgettable moment. Csonka and the Miami Dolphins secured a 14-7 victory over the Redskins, with Larry rushing for 112 yards on 15 carries. His 49-yard run became the second-longest in Super Bowl history at that time.
1973 Regular Season Game vs. New England Patriots
In the 1973 regular season game against the New England Patriots, Larry Csonka helped the Miami Dolphins player. He displayed unparalleled power and agility as a fullback, so the Dolphins accumulated over 250 rushing yards during the game.
AFC Championship Game (1973) vs. Oakland Raiders
The 1973 AFC Championship Game against the Oakland Raiders allowed Larry to win the game’s MVP honors. As the Miami Dolphins swooped a 27-10 victory, Csonka scored three touchdowns and set a record for the most touchdowns in a single AFC Championship game.
Super Bowl VIII (1974) vs. Minnesota Vikings
The Miami Dolphins’ decisive 24-7 victory over the Minnesota Vikings was possible because of Larry’s excellent performance. After the game, he became the first running back to be named Super Bowl MVP. His game stats included a record-setting 145 rushing yards on 33 carries and two touchdowns.
1974 Regular Season Game vs. Buffalo Bills
In the 1974 regular season game against the Buffalo Bills on November 17, Larry Csonka scored one critical touchdown with a 6-yard rush. The result was a 21-14 win for the Dolphins. The team also had a successful campaign that year, which led them to another playoff appearance.
1974 Playoff Game vs. Oakland Raiders (The Sea of Hands Game)
This game against the Oakland Raiders is famously known as the “Sea of Hands” game. In the intense matchup, Csonka contributed to Miami’s offensive efforts with 114 rushing yards on 23 carries. His ability to gain tough yards allowed Miami to execute long drives.
1975 Regular Season Game vs. St. Louis Cardinals
Csonka, who was playing in the World Football League at this time, utilized his powerful running style to dominate the ground game. By consistently breaking tackles and gaining important yardage, he recorded 116 rushing yards on 24 carries and two touchdowns.
1979 Comeback Game with the Miami Dolphins vs. Washington Redskins
Larry returned to the Dolphins in 1979 after a briefly play at the World Football League. He ushered the Miami Dolphins to a dramatic 34-27 victory and was awarded the NFL’s Comeback Player of the Year at the end of the season.
Final Touchdown Run of His Career (1979)
One memorable moment in Csonka’s career was his final season with the Dolphins in 1979. During the game, the star made his final touchdown run in his illustrious NFL career. This capped off his remarkable career and solidified his legacy as a key figure in the Dolphins’ history.
Larry Csonka’s 15 Greatest Game Moments