Origins of "America's Team"
The moniker "America's Team" has been synonymous with the Dallas Cowboys since 1979 when NFL Films bestowed this title upon them. The Cowboys' appeal and national fanbase helped solidify their place in the collective American sports psyche. It wasn’t just the nickname that defined them during the 1970s. It was their performance on the field.
The Cowboys vs. Steelers Rivalry
Throughout the 1970s, the Dallas Cowboys and Pittsburgh Steelers forged one of the most iconic rivalries in NFL history. This period saw the Cowboys securing two Super Bowl victories, though they endured heart-wrenching defeats as well. The Cowboys fell short in three Super Bowl appearances by a mere combined total of 11 points against formidable opponents, most notably the Steelers.
Their clashes in Super Bowl X and Super Bowl XIII remain etched in the memories of football enthusiasts. Super Bowl X ended dramatically with Pittsburgh’s victory at 21-17, propelled by Lynn Swann's spectacular 64-yard touchdown catch and a dominant fourth-quarter performance where the Steelers scored four consecutive times. The Cowboys' hope flickered faintly as they endured an end-zone interception as time expired.
Super Bowl XIII: A Battle of Champions
Super Bowl XIII was a clash of titans, marking the first time two teams with multiple championship titles faced off in the big game. The Cowboys initially took the lead, but it was Pittsburgh's relentless offense that swung the momentum. Still, Roger Staubach's leadership shone brightly as he orchestrated two late scoring drives in an attempt to tilt the game’s balance.
The game was fraught with pivotal moments. An infamous dropped touchdown pass by Jackie Smith and a controversial pass interference call against Benny Barnes, which led to a crucial Franco Harris touchdown, contributed to the 35-31 Steelers victory. Reflecting on the game, 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 [Roger] Staubach had the ball driving [late] in those games."
A Decade Defined
Despite these setbacks, the Cowboys could hold their heads high with a Super Bowl XII victory against the Denver Broncos, a game that underscored their resilience and perseverance. The acquisition of running back Tony Dorsett in 1977 bolstered their roster, providing a new dynamic offensive weapon.
The late 1970s brought significant changes to the NFL landscape. Rule changes in 1978, intended to curb the Steelers' defensive dominance, paradoxically fueled their offensive capabilities. This adaptation saw Terry Bradshaw earning the prestigious league MVP title in 1978, underscoring Pittsburgh’s ability to evolve and thrive.
Reflections and Legacies
The echoes of these clashes reverberate through time. Ed "Too Tall" Jones, a defensive stalwart who amassed 106 sacks over his illustrious 15-year career with the Cowboys, often reflects on those days. "I was proud of the way we hung in there against a veteran team, because experience in big games is very important. Very important," he commented, highlighting the youthful vigor of the Cowboys against the seasoned efficiency of the Steelers.
Jones also reflected on the controversial moments that defined their rivalry. "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," he stated, underlining the harsh realities of elite competition.
Today, Jones remains active off the field, advocating for mobility aids like the 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," he shared, embodying the same determination and resilience that marked his career on the gridiron.
The 1970s Dallas Cowboys, emblematic of grit and glory, undeniably shaped an era. Their battles, especially against the Pittsburgh Steelers, continue to inspire and resonate with fans and players alike.