In 1979, the Dallas Cowboys embraced the moniker "America's Team," a title bestowed upon them by NFL Films. The nickname perfectly encapsulated their nationwide fanbase and charismatic presence on the field. Throughout the 1970s, the Cowboys became synonymous with success, securing two Super Bowl victories and continually vying for supremacy in the NFL.
A Decade of Fierce Rivalry
The Cowboys' battles with the Pittsburgh Steelers defined the era. The Steelers, heralded as the 'Team of the Decade,' clashed with the Cowboys in several high-stakes encounters. These games were the epitome of competition, featuring dramatic moments and narrow margins. Super Bowl X and Super Bowl XIII stood out as the most memorable confrontations.
In Super Bowl X, the Steelers edged out a victory with a score of 21-17. The fourth quarter saw Pittsburgh score four consecutive times, a crucial factor in their triumph. Lynn Swann's remarkable 64-yard touchdown catch and a last-second end-zone interception by Dallas were pivotal moments that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
Super Bowl XIII was historic for being the first Super Bowl between two teams that had each previously won multiple championships. Pittsburgh ultimately emerged victorious 35-31, albeit not without a spirited fight from Dallas. The Cowboys initially seized the lead, but Pittsburgh's offensive onslaught quickly swung the momentum. Roger Staubach's two late scoring drives almost closed the gap, but it wasn't enough. The game had its share of dramatic moments, including Jackie Smith's dropped touchdown pass and a crucial pass interference call against Benny Barnes, which led to Franco Harris finding the end zone.
A Steadfast Team Spirit
Reflecting on those intense matches, Ed "Too Tall" Jones, a defensive stalwart for the Cowboys, emphasized the role of experience. "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," he explained.
Such sentiments highlight the importance of playoff poise, a factor that often differentiates champions from mere contenders. "I was proud of the way we hung in there against a veteran team, because experience in big games is very important. Very important," Jones added. His comments underscore the resilience and tenacity displayed by the Cowboys, characteristics that endeared them to fans across the nation.
Memorable Performances and Legacy
Despite the heart-wrenching losses to Pittsburgh, the Cowboys had their share of glory. They triumphed in Super Bowl XII against the Denver Broncos, further solidifying their status. The addition of running back Tony Dorsett to the roster in 1977 proved to be a game-changer, enhancing their offensive prowess.
The Steelers also faced challenges in maintaining their dominance. In 1978, rule changes aimed at reducing their defensive impact inadvertently boosted their offensive capabilities. That same year, Terry Bradshaw's brilliance was recognized when he earned the league MVP title. Meanwhile, Ed "Too Tall" Jones's career was marked by outstanding performances, recording 106 sacks over 15 years. His legacy extends beyond the field, as he now promotes mobility aids like 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 remarked, attesting to the product's impact on his post-football life.
The 1970s were a defining decade for the Dallas Cowboys, seeing them rise to prominence and earn the title "America's Team." Their rivalry with the Pittsburgh Steelers, characterized by games of fine margins and intense competition, remains etched in NFL history. As Ed "Too Tall" Jones's reflections reveal, the experiences and lessons of those years continue to resonate, underscoring the enduring legacy of that iconic team.