Super Bowl XVII: Washington’s Comeback at the Rose Bowl – 27-17 Win over Miami
January 30, 1983, is a date etched in the memory of Washington Redskins fans. On that day, at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California, the Redskins completed a Super Bowl XVII comeback for the ages, defeating the Miami Dolphins 27-17. It wasn’t just a victory; it was the culmination of a strike-shortened season, a testament to resilience, and the franchise’s first NFL championship since 1942. The game, initially a defensive struggle, transformed into a showcase of Washington’s grit and determination, forever solidifying its place in NFL history.
A Tale of Two Halves
The first half was a tense affair, with Miami seizing the early momentum. Dolphins quarterback David Woodley connected with Jimmy Cefalo for a 76-yard touchdown, putting Miami ahead. Mark Moseley kicked a field goal for Washington, but Uwe von Schamann responded with one of his own, extending Miami’s lead. Joe Theismann then found Alvin Garrett for a 4-yard touchdown, tying the game. Just as it seemed Washington had found its rhythm, Fulton Walker returned the ensuing kickoff 98 yards for a touchdown, giving Miami a 17-10 lead at halftime.
The second half, however, was a different story. The Redskins defense, led by Dave Butz, Darryl Grant, Dexter Manley, Neal Olkewicz and Mark Murphy, tightened its grip, limiting Miami to just 47 offensive plays and 176 total yards. Washington’s offense, after a slow start, began to find its stride.
Riggins’ Defining Run
The turning point came with 10:10 remaining in the fourth quarter. Facing fourth down and one at Miami’s 43-yard line, Redskins coach Joe Gibbs made a bold decision: he called “Goal line, goal line. I-left, tight wing, 70 chip on white.” Theismann handed the ball to John Riggins, who burst through the line, stiff-arming Dolphins cornerback Don McNeal on his way to a 43-yard touchdown. The play, now legendary, gave Washington its first lead of the game, 20-17.
Riggins, known as “The Diesel,” was an unstoppable force that day. He carried the ball a Super Bowl record 38 times for 166 yards, earning him the Super Bowl MVP award. His performance was not just about statistics; it was about sheer will and determination.
Theismann Seals the Deal
With the lead in hand, Theismann and the Redskins offense continued to execute. Aided by Riggins’ powerful running, Washington drove down the field, and Theismann connected with Charlie Brown for a 6-yard touchdown, extending the lead to 27-17. The Redskins had completed their Super Bowl XVII comeback.
Theismann finished the game with 15 completions on 23 attempts for 143 yards and two touchdowns. Charlie Brown led all receivers with six catches for 60 yards and a touchdown. But the day belonged to Riggins, whose dominant performance on the ground secured Washington’s victory.
More Than Just a Game
Super Bowl XVII was more than just a game; it was a symbol of hope and resilience for Washington Redskins fans. The team had overcome adversity throughout the season, including the players’ strike, and had emerged victorious on the biggest stage. The victory was a testament to the leadership of coach Joe Gibbs, the determination of quarterback Joe Theismann, and the unstoppable force of John Riggins.
The game also featured memorable performances from other players. Miami’s Fulton Walker set a Super Bowl record with a 98-yard kickoff return for a touchdown. Jimmy Cefalo had two receptions for 82 yards, including a 76-yard touchdown. However, these individual efforts were not enough to overcome Washington’s dominant performance in the second half.
The Legacy of Super Bowl XVII
Super Bowl XVII remains a cherished memory for Washington Redskins fans. It was a game of dramatic shifts, memorable plays, and outstanding individual performances. John Riggins’ iconic run is still replayed today, and the victory is celebrated as one of the greatest comebacks in Super Bowl history. The 27-17 win over the Miami Dolphins at the Rose Bowl on January 30, 1983, will forever be remembered as the day Washington captured its first Super Bowl championship and cemented its place in NFL lore.