This post is part of the 50 Seasons in 50 Weeks Series.Relying heavily once again on its dominant defense, the 1971 Dallas Cowboys smothered the upstart Miami Dolphins and won Super Bowl VI by a score of 24-3 on January 16, 1972 at Tulane Stadium in New Orleans.
Miami only managed 185 yards in total offense. One of the most famous plays of the game, and one of the most famous defensive plays of all time, occurred on the final play of the first quarter. Bob Lilly and Larry Cole chased Miami quarterback Bob Griese for several seconds before Lilly finally recorded the sack. The Dolphins lost 29 yards on the play.
Roger Staubach won the Most Valuable Player award thanks to a solid (though not spectacular) day. He threw for 119 yards and two touchdowns. Duane Thomas led the rushing attack by gaining 95 yards on the ground. As a team, the Cowboys gained 252 rushing yards.
The full replay of the game is available as part of the Greatest Games DVD set. Here are a couple of clips.
Pregame Introductions
Part of the Second Quarter (showing Staubach's touchdown pass to Lance Alworth):
More references:
Box Score (Pro Football Reference)
Dallas Morning News Story: Super Cowboys Bowl 'Em Over
Play by Play (USA Today)
Original Story:
