Known for their iconic star emblem and a winning legacy built in the 1970s, the Dallas Cowboys have long been celebrated as "America's Team." This moniker, bestowed upon them in 1979 by NFL Films, symbolizes a nation's admiration for their tenacity, skill, and larger-than-life persona. Their journey through the 1970s etched unforgettable memories in the annals of NFL history, particularly through their intense rivalry with another powerhouse of that era, the Pittsburgh Steelers.
The Rivalry: Cowboys vs. Steelers
The Dallas Cowboys and Pittsburgh Steelers' head-to-head matchups were nothing short of legendary. Throughout the 1970s, the two teams met in several momentous games, including two hard-fought Super Bowl encounters.
In Super Bowl X, the Steelers clinched a narrow 21-17 victory after a dramatic series of events in the fourth quarter, which saw Pittsburgh score four consecutive times. Notable moments included Lynn Swann's spectacular 64-yard touchdown catch and a game-sealing end-zone interception by Dallas as time expired.
Two years later, Super Bowl XIII showcased another intense battle. It was the first Super Bowl featuring two teams that had each previously won multiple championships. Despite Dallas initially taking the lead, Pittsburgh's offensive surge, led by the league MVP Terry Bradshaw, shifted the momentum. Cowboys' quarterback Roger Staubach rallied late with two scoring drives, but mistakes, including Jackie Smith’s infamous dropped touchdown pass and Benny Barnes’s critical pass interference penalty, ensured the Steelers' 35-31 victory. The penalty against Barnes ultimately led to a Franco Harris touchdown, underlining the high stakes and fine margins that defined these clashes.
Building "America's Team"
Even amid these crushing defeats, the Cowboys' resilience and flair on the field cemented their status. They won two Super Bowls in the 1970s and narrowly missed out on three others by a combined total of just 11 points.
Ed "Too Tall" Jones, one of the era's defensive stalwarts for the Cowboys, reflected on these historic matches: "That Pittsburgh team had nothing but veterans on both sides of the ball. Nothing but veterans. 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." His comments highlight not just the close nature of these contests but also the youthful exuberance of the Cowboys squad.
The Grit and Growth of the Cowboys
Jones's reflections reveal a deep sense of pride: "I was proud of the way we hung in there against a veteran team, because experience in big games is very important. Very important." Despite coming up short, the Cowboys' perseverance in the face of seasoned opponents showcased their potential and spirit.
Jones also acknowledged the challenges faced by the Cowboys: "You mention Benny Barnes and those calls, I'm not one to complain, because that's just one play. Even though every controversial call went against Dallas, but throw that to the side. The difference was experience." It was this blend of youthful promise and difficult lessons that eventually sculpted the Cowboys into a dominant force.
Additions like running back Tony Dorsett in 1977 further bolstered the squad. Dorsett's impact was immediate, helping Dallas to a Super Bowl XII victory against the Denver Broncos. However, the 1978 NFL rule changes, designed to curtail Pittsburgh's defensive stronghold, inadvertently fortified their offense, culminating in Terry Bradshaw's MVP season. The Cowboys persisted, and over his 15-year career, Jones amassed an impressive 106 sacks, signifying the long-term quality and influence of the team.
Legacy and Enduring Influence
The legacy of the 1970s Cowboys endures not just in their titles but in the ethos they embodied. As Jones continues to inspire others, promoting mobility aids like Sportcane, his admiration for the team and their journey is evident: "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."
The story of "America's Team" in the 1970s is one of aspiration, heartbreak, and ultimate triumph. It’s a narrative that resonates with fans and players alike, demonstrating the relentless pursuit of greatness that has defined the Dallas Cowboys and their place in NFL history.