225 Stories to Celebrate: Dan Marino–Hometown Hero, NFL Legend

Dan Marino grew up in the shadow of the Cathedral of Learning before going on to stardom at Pitt and the National Football League. Many consider him to be the quintessential quarterback.

While at Pitt from 1979 to 1982, Marino broke nearly every major passing record in school history and led Pitt to four consecutive top 10 finishes. Marino had one of the most dramatic endings in bowl history when he threw a touchdown pass with seconds left to give the Panthers a 24–20 victory over the University of Georgia at the 1982 Sugar Bowl.

A first-round draft pick of the Miami Dolphins in 1983, Marino went on to gain recognition as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history, with a record-breaking 17-year career. He retired following the 1999 season as the league’s all-time leader in passing attempts, completions, yardage, and touchdowns.

Pitt retired Marino’s number 13 jersey. He is both a College and Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee.

A highly regarded studio host for CBS’s NFL telecasts, he became a Pitt trustee in 2008. That same year, he delivered Pitt's commencement address.

For more stories about Pitt's legacy of achievement or to share your own stories about the University, visit www.225.pitt.edu.