just in: Miami Dolphins’ announces the death of a legendary coach, Shula described him as “one of the greatest defensive coaches in football

Bill Arnsparger, the mastermind behind the Miami Dolphins’ formidable defense during their two Super Bowl victories, was named a semifinalist on Thursday for the Pro Football Hall of Fame’s Class of 2025.

Arnsparger led the defense under Don Shula during the 1972 Dolphins’ perfect 17-0 season and their Super Bowl win, successfully defending their title in 1973.

Arnsparger passed away at the age of 88 in 2015. Following his death, Shula described him as “one of the greatest defensive coaches in football.”

Shula also remarked, “If there were a Hall of Fame for assistant coaches, he would be among the very first inductees.”

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While there is a general Hall of Fame, Arnsparger faces strong competition in the coaching category from Tom Coughlin, Mike Holmgren, Chuck Knox, Dan Reeves, Marty Schottenheimer, George Seifert, Mike Shanahan, and Clark Shaughnessy.

In a file photo from January 13, 1974, Miami Dolphins linebacker Nick Buoniconti (85) is seen conversing with assistant coach Bill Arnsparger (in a white hat) and head coach Don Shula (right) during Super Bowl VIII at Rice Stadium, where Miami defeated the Minnesota Vikings 24-7. (Mandatory Credit: Dick Raphael-USA TODAY Sports)

Arnsparger was highly regarded by the defensive players on Miami’s championship teams.

Dick Anderson, an All-Pro safety, remarked, “The success of our defense was because of him. Period.”

Defensive tackle Manny Fernandez added, “If anyone deserves credit for coaching, it’s him. He did an incredible job.”

Arnsparger also served as head coach of the New York Giants and was the athletic director at the University of Florida, where he hired Steve Spurrier as head football coach.

Arnsparger was inducted into the Dolphins’ Ring of Honor on December 14, 2012, making him the only assistant coach to receive this recognition. His significance was evident when, after being dismissed as head coach of the Giants after 2.5 seasons, Shula promptly brought him back.