Born on May 23, 1951, Lyle Blackwood was a key figure in the Miami Dolphins’ legendary “Killer B” defense of the early 1980s. From 1981 to 1986, he patrolled the secondary alongside his younger brother Glenn Blackwood, forming one of the most formidable safety duos in NFL history. Dubbed the “Bruise Brothers,” the Blackwood tandem was known for its tough, intelligent play, and for being a critical component of a defense that helped carry the Dolphins to two AFC Championships—in the strike-shortened 1982 season and again in 1984.Though Glenn was the younger sibling, it was Lyle who first made his mark in the NFL. A 9th-round pick out of TCU by the Cincinnati Bengals in 1973, Lyle Blackwood carved out a long and impactful career that included stints with the Bengals, Seattle Seahawks, and Baltimore Colts before joining the Dolphins in 1981. It was with the Colts in 1977 that Lyle enjoyed one of his finest individual seasons, leading the NFL with 10 interceptions—a rare and impressive feat for a safety.By the time he joined the Dolphins, Lyle was a seasoned veteran whose experience and leadership proved invaluable to Miami’s young, ascending defense. Paired with Glenn, the two brought both skill and cohesion to the back end of the Dolphins’ secondary, combining for 64 career interceptions over the course of their NFL careers.Lyle Blackwood’s contributions to the game went beyond stats. He was a savvy, physical player who brought a cerebral edge to his position, often outsmarting quarterbacks and reading plays before they unfolded. His presence helped define an era of Dolphins football that was marked by strong defensive play and consistent postseason contention under legendary head coach Don Shula.Today, as Lyle celebrates his 74th birthday, we honor not just his longevity, but his enduring impact on the game of football and the Miami Dolphins franchise. Happy birthday to a true gridiron great—Lyle Blackwood!—
