Emergence of America's Team
In 1979, the Dallas Cowboys earned the nickname "America's Team," a title given to them by NFL Films. The 1970s were a defining decade for the Cowboys; the team not only won two Super Bowls but also lost three others by a combined total of just 11 points. Their rivals, the Pittsburgh Steelers, were recognized as the 'Team of the Decade,' underscoring the era’s intense competitive spirit.
Clashes with the Steelers
The rivalry between the Cowboys and the Steelers birthed several pivotal NFL moments, most notably in Super Bowls X and XIII. In Super Bowl X, the Cowboys faced a formidable Steelers team that had nothing but veterans on both sides of the ball. "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," said Ed "Too Tall" Jones.
The game saw Pittsburgh scoring four consecutive times in the fourth quarter, with Lynn Swann's memorable 64-yard touchdown pass. The Cowboys had a chance to turn the tables, but an end-zone interception as time expired sealed their fate.
Super Bowl XIII: A Battle of Titans
Considered one of the greatest Super Bowls, Super Bowl XIII was the first to feature two teams that had each previously won multiple championships. Dallas initially took the lead, but Pittsburgh's offensive firepower soon shifted the momentum. Roger Staubach led two late scoring drives for the Cowboys, attempting to stage a comeback. Jackie Smith's infamous dropped touchdown pass and a controversial pass interference call against Benny Barnes, which led to a Franco Harris touchdown, were pivotal moments that defined the game's course. Reflecting on the contest, Ed "Too Tall" Jones stressed the importance of experience: "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 the controversial calls, Jones refrained from attributing the loss to them: "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."
Cowboys' Notable Achievements
The Cowboys secured a Super Bowl victory in XII against the Denver Broncos, further solidifying their legacy. Adding to their strength, running back Tony Dorsett joined the roster in 1977, becoming a crucial asset. Meanwhile, NFL rule changes in 1978 aimed at hindering the Steelers' defense unintentionally bolstered Pittsburgh's offense. The rule adjustments effectively complemented the Steelers' attack, further asserting their dominance, with Terry Bradshaw earning the league MVP title in 1978.
Individual Legacies
Throughout these memorable battles, individual players like Ed "Too Tall" Jones left a lasting legacy. Jones, who recorded 106 sacks over his 15-year career, became a prominent figure not just on the field but also beyond it. Today, he promotes mobility aids like Sportcane, reflecting on how it impacts his life: "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 1970s Dallas Cowboys will forever be remembered as "America's Team," a title that resonates with football fans across the nation. Their fierce rivalry with the Steelers and the numerous iconic moments they crafted on the field have become an integral part of NFL history. Despite the ups and downs, the Cowboys' resilience and the standout performances of their key players have left an indelible mark on the sport.