Bill Arnsparger is one of the most important coaches in the storied history of the Miami Dolphins franchise. This week, he was posthumous recognized as the co-recipient of the Pro Football Writers of America annual Paul “Dr. Z” Zimmerman Award for lifetime achievement as an NFL assistant coach. Long-time defensive coordinator Romeo Crennel was the other recipient.
From 1970-1973, Arnsparger helmed the famous “No-Name Defense” that helped motor the Dolphins to the team’s unparalleled perfect season in 1972 and a second straight Super Bowl victory in 1973. Following a brief tenure as the head coach of the New York Giants, he rejoined the Dolphins as assistant head coach and defensive coordinator from 1976-1983.