On both the career and single season level, Don Shula is arguably the best coach ever. On the career level, his 328 regular-season wins are a league high, and his .665 overall winning percentage, is the fifth highest of coaches with 100 or more wins. As for single-season achievements, his 1972 Miami Dolphins are the only team in history to complete a perfect season "and" win the Super Bowl. Additionally, he led his teams to 20 playoff appearances and six Super Bowls. Overall, Don Shula proved over and over that he can win with any type of team.

On the Other: Only 19-17 in the Playoffs

With all of Don Shula's success, his four Super Bowl losses (an NFL record) and .528 playoff winning percentage leave blemishes on his record. As such, arguments have been made that other coaches should lay claim to best ever. Among them are Paul Brown, who coached seven pre-Super Bowl championships; Vince Lombardi, with a .740 overall winning percentage; Tom Landry, who coached his teams to a record 20 playoff wins, and 20 consecutive winning seasons; and George Halas, who coached the Bears for 40 years and earned 324 wins (second best).

Bottom Line

Deciding who the "best ever" of anything is always a subjective argument. Nonetheless, Don Shula's success stands out as he owns the record for most wins and led his team to the only perfect season ever. Also, with the New England Patriots coming near perfection in 2007 but failing in the Super Bowl, it makes Don Shula's 17-0 Dolphins of 1972 look that much more impressive.

Source:

Profootballhof: Don Shula

Profootballhof: Tom Landry