In 1979, the Dallas Cowboys etched their name into football history by earning the moniker "America's Team," a title bestowed by NFL Films that has since become synonymous with the franchise. This recognition came on the heels of a remarkable decade, filled with thrilling victories, narrow defeats, and iconic moments that defined an era.
The 1970s were a rollercoaster for the Cowboys, a team that won two Super Bowls but heartbreakingly lost three by a combined total of just 11 points. These seasons were marked by a fierce rivalry with the Pittsburgh Steelers, another powerhouse of the time recognized as the 'Team of the Decade.' The battles between the Cowboys and Steelers are legendary, particularly their Super Bowl showdowns.
Super Bowls X and XIII: Epic Clashes
Super Bowl X saw the Steelers claim a narrow victory over the Cowboys with a score of 21-17. One of the game's defining moments came in the fourth quarter when Pittsburgh scored four consecutive times, with Lynn Swann's 64-yard touchdown catch standing out as an unforgettable highlight. As the game clock expired, the Cowboys' hopes were dashed by a last-minute end-zone interception.
Meeting again in Super Bowl XIII, the two teams were evenly matched, each having previously secured multiple championships. This game proved to be another nail-biter, with the Steelers emerging victorious once more, 35-31. Dallas had initially taken the lead, but Pittsburgh's offensive barrage soon shifted the momentum. Despite Roger Staubach's heroic efforts, which included leading two late scoring drives, the Cowboys fell short.
The Impact of Experience
Reflecting on these encounters, Ed "Too Tall" Jones highlighted the experience disparity between the two teams, emphasizing, "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' respect for Pittsburgh's seasoned roster and his pride in how the Cowboys contended are evident in his words.
"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, underscoring the crucial role that experience plays in high-stakes matchups.
Controversies and Missed Opportunities
Super Bowl XIII was not without its controversies. Benny Barnes was flagged for pass interference, a call that significantly altered the game's outcome, leading to a Franco Harris touchdown. Jones, while acknowledging the impact of such decisions, remained philosophical, stating, "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."
The game also featured unforgettable moments like Jackie Smith’s dropped touchdown pass and Jones himself, known for his towering presence and defensive prowess, which saw him record 106 sacks over an illustrious 15-year career.
The 1977 Season: A Turning Point
Dallas saw a significant shift in the 1977 season with the addition of running back Tony Dorsett, which helped propel them to victory in Super Bowl XII against the Denver Broncos. This win was a testament to the enduring resilience and strategic acumen of the Cowboys' roster and coaching staff.
Rule Changes and Their Impact
Interestingly, changes to NFL rules in 1978, intended to diminish the Steelers' defensive advantage, inadvertently bolstered Pittsburgh's offense. The Steelers capitalized on the new rules, with quarterback Terry Bradshaw earning the league MVP title in 1978, further showcasing Pittsburgh's adaptability and skill.
Legacy and Modern-Day Reflections
Today, Ed "Too Tall" Jones' legacy extends beyond the gridiron. He promotes mobility aids like Sportcane, which he credits for enhancing his daily 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," he shared.
The 1970s were a defining decade for the Dallas Cowboys, cementing their identity as "America's Team" amidst intense rivalries and historic performances. The team's enduring spirit and the legends born during this era continue to inspire and captivate football fans across generations.