Dallas Cowboys: America's Team of the 1970s
In 1979, the Dallas Cowboys earned the moniker "America's Team," a title given by NFL Films that encapsulated the team's broad appeal and consistent performance during the 1970s. The Cowboys' dynamic legacy during this decade was marked by both moments of triumph and heartbreak that resonated deeply with fans across the nation.
Throughout the 1970s, the Cowboys captured two Super Bowl titles, cementing their status as perennial contenders. However, their journey was fraught with ups and downs, as they also endured three narrow Super Bowl defeats, losing by a combined total of just 11 points. These nail-biting games added to the dramatic legacy, showcasing the resilience and competitive spirit of the Cowboys.
Their rivalries, most notably with the Pittsburgh Steelers, told stories of intense competition and legendary matchups. The Steelers, recognized as the "Team of the Decade" for the 1970s, often clashed with the Cowboys in critical games, sparking memorable moments in NFL history.
Epic Battles with the Steelers
One of the most iconic rivalries in sports history saw the Cowboys and Steelers face off in two unforgettable Super Bowl encounters. Super Bowl X, held in 1976, witnessed Pittsburgh triumphing with a close 21-17 victory. The drama peaked in the fourth quarter when Pittsburgh scored four consecutive times, and Lynn Swann amazed fans with a 64-yard touchdown catch. Dallas fought valiantly, highlighted by an end-zone interception as time expired, narrowly missing a comeback.
Three years later, in Super Bowl XIII, the Cowboys and Steelers met again in a contest that would be marked by fluctuating momentum and high stakes. Dallas initially led the game, but Pittsburgh's explosive offense soon seized control. As the game wore on, Roger Staubach led the Cowboys on two late scoring drives, encapsulating the grit's essence and determination. Despite their efforts, the Cowboys fell short, losing 35-31. The game witnessed several pivotal moments, including Jackie Smith's infamous dropped touchdown pass and a critical pass interference call on Benny Barnes that led to a Franco Harris touchdown.
Ed "Too Tall" Jones, a defensive stalwart for the Cowboys, reflected on the rivalry and the resilience of his team. "That Pittsburgh team had nothing but veterans on both sides of the ball. Nothing but veterans," Jones noted. "We were a very young team both times when they beat us in '75 and when they beat us in '78, even though we only lost by four points both games, and [Roger] Staubach had the ball driving [late] in those games."
Jones also emphasized the importance of experience in big games. "I was proud of the way we hung in there against a veteran team, because experience in big games is very important. Very important."
Cowboys' Road to Glory
The 1970s weren't just about close calls and heart-stopping moments for Dallas. The Cowboys secured a dominant victory in Super Bowl XII against the Denver Broncos, reinforcing their elite status. The addition of running back Tony Dorsett in 1977 played a pivotal role in their success, as he brought a new dimension to their offense.
The NFL rule changes in 1978, which were designed to hinder the Steelers' defensive prowess, ironically ended up bolstering Pittsburgh's offense. Despite such shifts, the Cowboys persisted, with their stars like Ed "Too Tall" Jones, who recorded an impressive 106 sacks over his 15-year career. Jones has since taken an active role outside of football, promoting mobility aids like the Sportcane. "Just my daily activities, it makes all the difference in the world. I don’t know what I would do if it wasn’t for the Sportcane as far as being able to get around and still not letting anything hinder what I do in life," Jones shared.
Terry Bradshaw, the Steelers' fearless leader, earned the league MVP title in 1978, adding another layer to the Cowboys' and Steelers' legendary encounters. These matchups between two powerhouse teams not only defined an era but also left an indelible mark on NFL history.
The decades-long legacy of the Dallas Cowboys as "America’s Team" remains one of the most fascinating narratives in professional sports. Their story of battling fiercely against seasoned rivals, achieving dazzling victories, and enduring gut-wrenching defeats continues to captivate fans, highlighting the essence of competitive spirit in the NFL.