Howard Twilley, who won back-to-back Super Bowls with the Miami Dolphins, has died at 81.
Twilley passed away on Wednesday, according to various reports. A native of Houston, Texas, Twilley was a two-time All-American, including a unanimous selection in his final season at Tulsa in 1965. That season, Twilley won UPI Lineman of the Year and finished as the runner-up for the Heisman Trophy. He set NCAA records with 134 receptions and 1,779 receiving yards in his final season, marks that stood for 24 and 30 years, respectively.
"We are deeply saddened by the loss of Tulsa Football Legend and Hall of Famer, Howard Twilley," the official Tulsa football X/Twitter account said Thursday. "Twilley was one of the greatest receivers in College Football history, setting numerous NCAA records before venturing to the NFL and winning two Super Bowls. Our hearts and sympathies are with Twilley's family and his many friends."
After college, Twilley was selected in both the AFL and NFL Drafts in 1966. Twilley wound up spending his entire 11-year professional career with the Miami Dolphins, first in the AFL and later the NFL.
With the Dolphins, Twilley appeared in 120 regular season games and recorded 212 receptions for 3,064 yards and 23 touchdowns.
In Super Bowl VII, Twilley opened the scoring with the first touchdown in Dolphins franchise history, a 28-yard reception from Bob Griese. Miami went on to defeat the Washington Redskins 14-7 to cap off an undefeated 17-0 season.
The following year, Twilley was part of the Dolphins' 1973 championship squad, which beat the Minnesota Vikings in Super Bowl VIII. Twilley caught 13 passes for 186 yards and a touchdown in 11 playoff contests.
Twilley was inducted into the Tulsa Athletic Hall of Fame in 1984, College Football Hall of Fame in 1992, and the Oklahoma Hall of Fame in 1995. His No. 81 was also retired by his alma mater.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Twilley's family and friends during this difficult time. May he rest in peace.
