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Howard Twilley, Key Player in Dolphins' Perfect 1972 Season, Dies at 81

Twilley, a College Football Hall of Famer and Super Bowl VII touchdown scorer, was a pioneer in the passing game during his 11-year NFL career.

Howard Twilley, wide receiver of the Miami Dolphins and 1965 runner up Heisman Trophy voting from Tulsa University, during the Star Spangled Banner on November 24, 1994 vs. the New York Jets at Shea Stadium.
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Overview

  • Howard Twilley, a wide receiver for the Miami Dolphins and a key contributor to their 1972 undefeated season, passed away at the age of 81; the cause of death has not been disclosed.
  • Twilley caught a pivotal 28-yard touchdown in Super Bowl VII, helping the Dolphins secure a 14-7 victory over Washington and complete the only perfect season in NFL history.
  • Before his NFL career, Twilley was a standout at the University of Tulsa, setting NCAA records for receptions and receiving yards in a single season and finishing second in the 1965 Heisman Trophy race.
  • Over his 11-season career with the Dolphins, Twilley recorded 212 receptions, 3,064 receiving yards, and 23 touchdowns, playing a key role in back-to-back Super Bowl wins in 1972 and 1973.
  • Twilley's legacy extends beyond football; he was inducted into multiple halls of fame, including the College Football Hall of Fame, and was remembered for his contributions to the sport and his post-football ventures.