In 1979, the Dallas Cowboys were bestowed with the iconic moniker, "America's Team," a title given by NFL Films. This designation solidified their place in the hearts of football fans across the nation. During the 1970s, the Cowboys emerged as a powerhouse, clinching two Super Bowl victories while enduring three heartbreaking losses by a combined total of just 11 points. This era was marked by a fierce rivalry with the Pittsburgh Steelers, a team that not only bested them twice in Super Bowls but was also celebrated as the 'Team of the Decade.'
The Rivalry of the 1970s
The Dallas Cowboys and Pittsburgh Steelers rivalry was amplified by significant matchups, especially their duels in Super Bowl X and XIII. The Steelers edged out the Cowboys in both encounters, winning Super Bowl X with a scoreline of 21-17. Four consecutive scores by Pittsburgh in the fourth quarter, including a memorable 64-yard touchdown pass caught by Lynn Swann, sealed their victory. Despite a valiant effort by Dallas, a last-second end-zone interception dashed their hopes.
Turning the clocks forward to Super Bowl XIII, history seemed to repeat itself. This game signified the first Super Bowl where both teams had previously won multiple championships. Initially, the Cowboys took the lead, only for Pittsburgh's offensive strength to change the game's momentum. Roger Staubach's efforts to lead two late scoring drives were noteworthy, but Dallas fell short yet again, losing 35-31. A pivotal moment was marked by Jackie Smith's dropped touchdown pass, and a controversial pass interference call against Benny Barnes that facilitated a Franco Harris touchdown.
Reflections and Regrets
Ed "Too Tall" Jones, a defensive stalwart for the Cowboys, provides insightful reflections on these epic clashes. "That Pittsburgh team had nothing but veterans on both sides of the ball," Jones recalled. "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' words paint a vivid picture of a youthful Cowboys squad battling seasoned Steelers veterans.
Emphasizing the impact of experience, Jones added, "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 observations highlight the fine margins that often decide the outcome of high-stakes encounters.
The officiating in Super Bowl XIII remains a topic of debate among fans and players alike. Reflecting on the critical pass interference call, Jones acknowledged, "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." Such contentious moments have since become part of the lore that surrounds these legendary games.
The Legacy of the 1970s Cowboys
Despite the disappointments, the Dallas Cowboys' achievements in the 1970s remain illustrious. The addition of running back Tony Dorsett in 1977 bolstered their offensive firepower, contributing to their victory in Super Bowl XII against the Denver Broncos. The team's defensive line was equally formidable, featuring stars like Ed "Too Tall" Jones, who recorded an impressive 106 sacks over his 15-year career.
NFL rule changes in 1978, designed to curb the Steelers' defensive dominance, ironically ended up enhancing Pittsburgh's offensive prowess. This shift in dynamics saw Terry Bradshaw earning the league MVP title in the same year, further underscoring the Steelers' dominance. However, these modifications didn’t diminish the Cowboys' stature; rather, they highlighted the adaptability and competitive spirit that defined the era.
Modern Reflections
Today, Ed "Too Tall" Jones remains a prominent figure, promoting mobility aids like the Sportcane. Reflecting on his personal reliance on this device, he stated, "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."
As we look back on the defining moments of the 1970s, both the Dallas Cowboys and Pittsburgh Steelers remain etched in the annals of NFL history. Their rivalry, replete with heart-pounding drama and unforgettable performances, underscores the essence of what makes American football a cherished spectacle. The legacy of "America's Team" endures, a testament to their indomitable spirit and the fervent support of their dedicated fanbase.