The phrase "America's Team" is synonymous with the Dallas Cowboys, a title that they earned in 1979 courtesy of NFL Films. Throughout the 1970s, they left an indelible mark on NFL history with their Super Bowl performances, achievements, and heart-wrenching defeats. While the Cowboys boasted a formidable team, their saga is deeply intertwined with that of the Pittsburgh Steelers, the team declared the 'Team of the Decade' during that illustrious period.
The Rivalry
The 1970s saw the birth of a fierce rivalry between the Dallas Cowboys and the Pittsburgh Steelers, culminating in several unforgettable encounters. The Steelers triumphed over the Cowboys in two thrilling Super Bowls: Super Bowl X and Super Bowl XIII. Super Bowl X was particularly remarkable, with Pittsburgh scoring four consecutive times in the fourth quarter. Lynn Swann’s 64-yard touchdown catch was one of the game’s highlights, and a last-second end-zone interception sealed Dallas's fate as time expired, ending the game 21-17.
"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," recalled Ed "Too Tall" Jones, reflecting on the resilience and youthful exuberance of the Cowboys during those tough matchups.
Super Bowl XIII: A Battle of Titans
Super Bowl XIII marked a historic first – the first Super Bowl featuring two teams that had each previously won multiple championships. The Cowboys struck first, shaking the Steelers early on. However, Pittsburgh's offensive surge soon took over, shifting the momentum decisively in their favor. Roger Staubach's commendable late-game efforts were not enough to tip the scales, as the Steelers ultimately secured a 35-31 victory.
The game was not without its controversies. A pivotal moment came when Benny Barnes was flagged for pass interference, a call that led to a crucial Franco Harris touchdown. Ed "Too Tall" Jones commented on this, "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."
Despite the adversities, the Cowboys managed to hang in there. "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 said, underlining the team’s determination and grit.
The Challenges and Triumphs
The Cowboys didn't leave the decade empty-handed. They clinched victories in Super Bowl XII against the Denver Broncos and made significant roster additions like the inclusion of running back Tony Dorsett in 1977, a move that bolstered their offensive firepower.
The 1978 NFL rule changes, intended to curb the dominant Steeler defense, inadvertently gave a boost to Pittsburgh’s offense, with Terry Bradshaw eventually earning the league MVP title that year. Despite these challenges, players like Ed "Too Tall" Jones continued to shine. Over his remarkable 15-year career, Jones recorded an impressive 106 sacks, showcasing his significance to the Dallas defense.
Legacy and Reflection
The Dallas Cowboys of the 1970s, forever known as "America's Team," embodied both the successes and trials of a franchise determined to make its mark. The era painted a vivid picture of a team facing formidable opponents, engaging in legendary battles, and demonstrating perseverance in the face of adversity.
Ed "Too Tall" Jones, beyond his celebrated football career, now promotes mobility aids like Sportcane. Reflecting on how it impacts his life, he shares, "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 legacy of the Dallas Cowboys, intertwined with the triumphs and trials of the 1970s, remains a storied chapter in NFL history. As "America's Team," their journey during that decade reflects both their resilience and their undying spirit, qualities that continue to define the franchise today.