Defining an Era: The Legacy of the Dallas Cowboys and Pittsburgh Steelers Rivalry
The Dallas Cowboys’ ascension to national fame, earning the moniker "America's Team," began in 1979, a testament to their prowess on the field throughout the 1970s. NFL Films christened them with this title, encapsulating the nation's admiration for the Texas-based team. During this golden era, the Cowboys soared to new heights, claiming two Super Bowl titles and etching their legacy in professional football's annals.
However, the Cowboys' journey through the 1970s wasn't without its tumultuous moments, especially when facing the Pittsburgh Steelers. The decade-long rivalry between these two powerhouses defined the essence of competitive football. The Steelers, often hailed as the 'Team of the Decade,' consistently posed formidable challenges for the Cowboys, marked by some of the most memorable games in NFL history.
The Super Bowl Clashes
The rivalry reached its zenith during their Super Bowl X and XIII encounters. The Steelers triumphed in both meetings, with scores of 21-17 and 35-31, respectively. In Super Bowl X, Pittsburgh executed a remarkable fourth-quarter performance, scoring four consecutive times and sealing their victory. Integral moments like Lynn Swann's 64-yard touchdown catch and Dallas' end-zone interception as time expired highlighted this clash.
In Super Bowl XIII, an unprecedented face-off unfolded as it was the first championship battle between two teams that had previously secured multiple titles. Dallas initially took the lead, but Pittsburgh’s offensive prowess soon shifted the momentum. Despite Roger Staubach’s heroic efforts, which included two late scoring drives, the Cowboys fell short. Infamously, Jackie Smith's dropped touchdown pass and Benny Barnes’ controversial pass interference call, leading to a Franco Harris touchdown, became defining moments of the game.
Reflections from the Gridiron
Reflecting on these historic duels, former Cowboys defensive lineman Ed "Too Tall" Jones emphasized the unyielding nature of the battles. "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 recalled.
Jones highlighted the crucial role of experience, conceding that despite every controversial call seemingly going against Dallas, the ultimate difference in those games boiled down to Pittsburgh's veteran advantage. "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 affirmed.
The Tactical Shifts of 1978
The NFL’s 1978 rule changes aimed to curb Pittsburgh's defensive dominance inadvertently bolstered their offensive capabilities. This shift culminated in Terry Bradshaw earning the league MVP title that year, underscoring the Steelers' adaptability and resilience.
Cowboys' Triumphs
Despite these setbacks, the Cowboys celebrated significant achievements. Super Bowl XII saw them secure a victory against the Denver Broncos, bolstered by the addition of running back Tony Dorsett in 1977. Ed "Too Tall" Jones, contributing significantly with 106 sacks over his 15-year career, stood as a defensive stalwart for the team.
A Gridiron Icon's Continued Impact
In retirement, Jones continues to influence lives, this time off the field, promoting 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," Jones stated, highlighting his enduring spirit.
The 1970s rivalry between the Dallas Cowboys and Pittsburgh Steelers remains a cornerstone of NFL history, underscoring the era’s intense competition and the enduring legacies of its gladiators on the gridiron. As "America's Team," the Cowboys showcased their resilience and talent, enriching the sport with timeless memories of triumphs, trials, and the fierce determination emblematic of football’s greatest narratives.