In 1979, NFL Films bestowed the Dallas Cowboys with the iconic title, "America's Team," a label that has endured through the decades. The moniker aptly encapsulates the Cowboys' dominance and widespread popularity during the 1970s, a decade marked by both triumphs and heartbreaks for the Texas-based franchise.
Rivalry with the Steelers
The Cowboys' storied rivalry with the Pittsburgh Steelers significantly shaped the landscape of 1970s NFL football. Throughout the decade, these two powerhouses clashed in multiple high-stakes encounters, with Pittsburgh earning the 'Team of the Decade' title. The intensity of this rivalry was perhaps best illustrated in their Super Bowl confrontations.
Super Bowl X and Super Bowl XIII were particularly notable, both thrilling and excruciating for Cowboys fans. The Steelers won Super Bowl X with a 21-17 scoreline, underscored by Lynn Swann's memorable 64-yard touchdown catch and Pittsburgh's incredible four consecutive scoring drives in the fourth quarter. Yet, the Cowboys had their moments, including a last-second end-zone interception as time expired.
Super Bowl XIII was another heart-stopper, making history as the first Super Bowl between two teams that had each previously won multiple championships. The Cowboys initially took the lead, but Pittsburgh's offensive surge rapidly shifted the momentum. Roger Staubach, renowned for his clutch performances, led two late scoring drives, but even his heroics couldn't overcome the experienced Steelers.
Reflecting on these battles, former Cowboys defensive player Ed "Too Tall" Jones remarked, "That Pittsburgh team had nothing but veterans on both sides of the ball. 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 Staubach had the ball driving late in those games." Jones added, "I was proud of the way we hung in there against a veteran team, because experience in big games is very important."
Controversies and Turning Points
Super Bowl XIII was not without its controversies. Jones recalled, "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." One of the critical plays was a pass interference call against Benny Barnes, which directly led to a Franco Harris touchdown, further solidifying the Steelers' grip on the game.
Another infamous moment came when Cowboys tight end Jackie Smith dropped a crucial touchdown pass, a play that many felt could have altered the course of the game. Yet, despite these setbacks, Staubach and the Cowboys continued to fight, exemplifying the spirit that earned them the "America's Team" title.
Key Players and Rule Changes
The Cowboys' roster boasted some of the most notable names in football history. Running back Tony Dorsett, added to the team in 1977, brought a dynamic edge to their offense. On the defensive side, Ed "Too Tall" Jones, who recorded 106 sacks over his 15-year career, was a formidable presence, revered for his consistency and impact.
Jones has since transitioned to promoting mobility aids like the Sportcane, underscoring his enduring resilience. "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.
The late 1970s also saw significant rule changes aimed at countering the Steelers' defensive dominance, indirectly enhancing their offense. These adjustments culminated in Terry Bradshaw claiming the league MVP title in 1978, further highlighting the era's transformative impact on the game.
Legacy of America's Team
The 1970s cemented the Dallas Cowboys' legacy, not just as a dominant force on the field but as a symbol of American football culture. Their intense rivalry with the Steelers, punctuated by narrow defeats and moments of brilliance, remains a defining chapter in NFL history. The story of "America’s Team" continues to resonate, a testament to the enduring appeal and competitiveness of the Dallas Cowboys.