On This Day
Rookie running sensation Earl Campbell stole the show as The Houston Oilers hosted the Miami Dolphins in a Monday Night Football thriller back on November 20th, 1978. Miami running back Delvin Williams was actually leading the league in rushing yards entering the contest, but that was about to change. A tight back and forth first half left the teams knotted 14-14 at the half. Earl had been held to just 44 yards thus far.
The tides would turn in Houston’s favor in the second half as everyone tuned into ABC that night around the country witnessed Earl’s stellar strength & skills. Earl had his way. Running with power & ease he effortlessly discarded dumbfounded Dolphin defenders to the wayside. Two Miami turnovers combined with Campbell’s epic second half allowed Houston to hold on for a 35-30 victory. Improving the Oilers to 8-4 on the season.
Earl finished the night with 199 yards on 28 carries with 4 touchdowns. One of those being an 81 yard scamper.
The Tyler Rose went on to earn many accolades for his stellar rookie season, finishing with a then rookie record 1450 yards on 302 carries and 13 touchdowns.
The two teams would meet again that post season in the Wild Card round, with Houston securing the win yet again. 17-9