The Origin of "America's Team"
In 1979, the Dallas Cowboys earned a moniker that would become synonymous with their brand: "America's Team." This title was bestowed upon them by NFL Films, and it has stuck ever since. The nickname captures the essence of a decade during which the Cowboys steadily built their reputation as a dominant force in the NFL.
During the 1970s, the Cowboys were a formidable presence, securing two Super Bowl victories that underscored their prowess. However, they also faced heart-wrenching defeats, losing three Super Bowls by a combined margin of just 11 points. These narrow losses did little to tarnish their standing; in fact, they exemplified the competitive spirit and resilience that earned them legions of devoted fans.
One of the most compelling subplots of the decade was the rivalry between the Cowboys and the Pittsburgh Steelers. This rivalry saw several iconic games, including two particularly poignant Super Bowl encounters—Super Bowl X and Super Bowl XIII.
An Epic Rivalry
The Steelers, who were recognized as the 'Team of the Decade' in the 1970s, regularly clashed with the Cowboys in bouts that could swing either way. In Super Bowl X, Pittsburgh managed to edge out Dallas with a score of 21-17. The fourth quarter featured a dramatic turnaround as Pittsburgh scored four consecutive times, truly a test of endurance and focus. The game had several memorable moments, including Lynn Swann's 64-yard touchdown catch and a last-minute end-zone interception by Dallas as time expired.
The rivalry’s intensity only grew when the teams met again in Super Bowl XIII. This game was historic for being the first Super Bowl between two teams that had already each won multiple championships. Despite Dallas initially taking the lead, Pittsburgh’s offensive onslaught shifted the momentum, showcasing why they were the team to beat. Roger Staubach valiantly led two late scoring drives, but the game is often remembered for pivotal moments like Jackie Smith dropping a crucial touchdown pass and Benny Barnes being called for pass interference, a call that led to a Franco Harris touchdown.
"That Pittsburgh team had nothing but veterans on both sides of the ball," reflected Cowboys defensive star Ed "Too Tall" Jones. "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."
The Heartbreaks and Triumphs
The bitter taste of those close losses lingered, but Jones expressed pride in the Cowboys' resilience. "I was proud of the way we hung in there against a veteran team, because experience in big games is very important. Very important."
Pass interference calls and dropped passes might have affected the scores, but Jones held no grudges. "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."
Not everything was disappointing for the Cowboys in the 1970s. They clinched victory in Super Bowl XII against the Denver Broncos, and 1977 saw the addition of running back Tony Dorsett, whose prowess further elevated the team. Defensive stalwarts like Ed "Too Tall" Jones, who recorded 106 sacks over his 15-year career, became symbols of the Cowboys' tenacity.
Adaptation and Evolution
NFL rule changes in 1978, aimed at hindering the Steelers' defensive dominance, inadvertently bolstered Pittsburgh's offense. Quarterback Terry Bradshaw went on to earn the league MVP title that year, illustrating how rule changes can sometimes have unintended consequences.
The narrative of the 1970s Cowboys is incomplete without acknowledging the role of these broader changes in the game. Each alteration in rules and regulations has invariably had ripple effects, influencing strategies and outcomes.
Today, Ed "Too Tall" Jones remains a proud symbol of that era, not just for his accomplishments on the field but also for his advocacy off it. Promoting mobility aids like Sportcane, he underscores the evolving lives of athletes post-retirement. "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 shared.
From the passionate clashes with the Steelers to the lasting label of "America's Team," the 1970s Dallas Cowboys were nothing short of a phenomenon. Their journey through victories, narrow losses, and evolving dynamics created a legacy that still resonates with football fans today.