The Legacy of "America's Team": A Look Back at the Cowboys-Steelers Rivalry
In 1979, the Dallas Cowboys were affectionately dubbed "America’s Team" by NFL Films, a title that stemmed from their immense popularity and consistent performance throughout the decade. Known for their high-profile battles, especially against their formidable rivals, the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Cowboys etched their name into NFL history with an enduring legacy.
The Cowboys’ journey in the 1970s was marked by two triumphant Super Bowl victories and numerous heart-wrenching losses. They won Super Bowls VI and XII, showcasing a blend of skill, strategy, and star talent, including the remarkable addition of running back Tony Dorsett in 1977. However, their path was not without its obstacles. Dallas lost three Super Bowls in the same decade, falling short by a mere 11 points combined. Among their most memorable matches were the hard-fought battles against the Steelers in Super Bowl X and XIII.
These games were not just noteworthy for their outcomes but also for the intense drama and competitive spirit that defined them. In Super Bowl X, the Steelers clinched victory with a 21-17 scoreline, bolstered by Pittsburgh scoring four consecutive times in the fourth quarter, including a pivotal 64-yard touchdown pass caught by Lynn Swann. The game's climax saw Dallas suffer an end-zone interception as time expired, sealing their fate in a match that left fans on the edge of their seats.
Super Bowl XIII was no less thrilling, marking the first Super Bowl where both contending teams had previously secured multiple championships. Initially, Dallas took the lead, but Pittsburgh's offensive prowess soon shifted the momentum. The Steelers eventually triumphed with a 35-31 victory, despite two late scoring drives led by Dallas’s Roger Staubach. The game was also famously remembered for Jackie Smith’s dropped touchdown pass, a controversial pass interference call against Benny Barnes, and a subsequent touchdown by Franco Harris.
Reflecting on these encounters, former Cowboys defensive stalwart Ed "Too Tall" Jones highlighted the grit and resilience of his team. "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," Jones recalled. The Cowboys' ability to compete fiercely against a veteran and experienced Pittsburgh lineup speaks volumes about their determination and tenacity.
Jones also emphasized the significance 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." His reflections encapsulate the broader narrative of the Cowboys' underdog spirit and their close encounters with greatness.
Despite facing tough competition, including rule changes in 1978 designed to curb the Steelers' defensive edge, which paradoxically boosted Pittsburgh's offense, the Cowboys persevered. That same year, Steelers' quarterback Terry Bradshaw clinched the league MVP title, underscoring the formidable talent they faced.
Jones' career, spanning 15 years with the Cowboys, saw him record an impressive 106 sacks, contributing significantly to the team’s defensive strength. His post-retirement involvement with promoting mobility aids like Sportcane underscores his enduring dedication to overcoming life's physical challenges. "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 stated, illustrating his practical approach to maintaining an active lifestyle.
The Cowboys’ saga in the 1970s, marked by victories, losses, and legendary rivalries, remains a cornerstone of NFL history. Their indomitable spirit, resilience in the face of adversity, and the unforgettable moments they created on the field have ensured their lasting legacy as "America’s Team."