Larry Csonka's football career is remembered for his powerful running style and his role in one of the most storied teams in NFL history. Born in Stow, Ohio, Csonka played college football at Syracuse University, where he developed into a standout fullback. His performance at Syracuse caught the attention of professional scouts, leading to his selection as the eighth overall pick in the 1968 NFL/AFL Draft by the Miami Dolphins.

Csonka's early years with the Dolphins were marked by the team's struggles, but his presence in the backfield began to change the team's fortunes. Under the guidance of head coach Don Shula, who joined the Dolphins in 1970, Csonka became an integral part of the team's offensive strategy. Known for his bruising running style, he was a nightmare for defenders, often requiring multiple tacklers to bring him down.

The 1971 season marked a turning point for both Csonka and the Dolphins. Miami reached the Super Bowl for the first time, although they fell to the Dallas Cowboys. However, the experience set the stage for the following year, when the Dolphins achieved the only perfect season in NFL history, finishing 17-0. Csonka's contributions were vital during this historic run, as he provided the team with a reliable ground game that complemented their strong defense.

In Super Bowl VII, Csonka played a crucial role in securing the Dolphins' victory over the Washington Redskins, rushing for 112 yards. His performance earned him the Super Bowl MVP award, a testament to his dominance on the field. The following year, Csonka and the Dolphins repeated as champions, defeating the Minnesota Vikings in Super Bowl VIII. Once again, Csonka was instrumental, rushing for 145 yards and two touchdowns, earning him another Super Bowl MVP honor.

Csonka's tenure with the Dolphins was characterized by his durability and consistency. He was named to the Pro Bowl five times and was a three-time All-Pro selection. His ability to gain tough yards and control the tempo of the game made him a valuable asset to the Dolphins' offense.

In 1975, Csonka made a surprising move to the World Football League (WFL), signing with the Memphis Southmen. However, the league folded before the end of the season, and Csonka returned to the NFL, joining the New York Giants in 1976. His time with the Giants was less successful, as the team struggled to find its footing.

Csonka returned to the Dolphins in 1979 for one final season, providing veteran leadership and experience to a young team. After retiring from professional football, he left behind a legacy of toughness and excellence on the field. His career rushing total of 8,081 yards and 64 touchdowns remains a testament to his effectiveness as a fullback.

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