The 1997 Miami Dolphins enjoyed a resurgent season under head coach Jimmy Johnson, finishing with a winning 9-7 record and securing a playoff berth for the first time in three years. The season was highlighted by a high-powered offense led by legendary quarterback Dan Marino and the emergence of a formidable defense featuring future Hall of Fame defensive end Jason Taylor and Pro Bowl defensive tackle Tim Bowens. Despite a narrow Wild Card loss, the team showed great resilience with seven games decided by a field goal or less and celebrated a satisfying season sweep of the rival New York Jets.