1978 Houston Oilers season

The 1978 season was the Houston Oilers 19th season and their ninth in the NFL. The franchise scored 283 points while the defense gave up 298 points. Their record of 10 wins and 6 losses resulted in a second place finish in the AFC Central Division. The Oilers appeared twice on Monday Night Football. In their first appearance on Monday Night Football, the Oilers beat the Pittsburgh Steelers 24–17. In their second appearance, the Oilers defeated the Miami Dolphins 35–30.

Regular season
On November 20, 1978, the Oilers took on the Miami Dolphins on Monday Night Football. In order to boost team spirit, the Oilers gave each fan a blue and white pom-pon before the game. The sight of over 70,000 fans waving the pom-pons inspired the Oilers to a 35–30 victory, behind Campbell's 199 rushing yards. This would be the start of Luv Ya Blue.

AFC Wild Card
Quarterback Dan Pastorini led the Oilers to an upset victory by passing for 306 yards.

AFC Divisional Playoff
Quarterback Dan Pastorini led the Oilers to a victory by throwing for 200 yards and three touchdowns, while running back Earl Campbell rushed for 118 yards and a score.

AFC Championship Game
On a wet, slick, and slippery field, the Steelers dominated the Oilers by forcing 9 turnovers and only allowing 5 points.

Awards and records

 * Earl Campbell, NFL Rushing Leader, (1,450)
 * Earl Campbell, All-Pro selection
 * Earl Campbell, NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year
 * Earl Campbell, PFWA NFL MVP
 * Earl Campbell, NEA NFL MVP
 * Earl Campbell, NFL Offensive Player of the Year
 * Earl Campbell, UPI AFL-AFC Player of the Year
 * Earl Campbell, Pro Bowl selection 1978

Milestones

 * Earl Campbell, 1st 1,000 yard rushing season
 * Earl Campbell, 1st NFL Rushing Title