The 1970s saw the emergence of the Dallas Cowboys as "America's Team," a title bestowed upon them by NFL Films in 1979. This era of the Cowboys was marked by remarkable successes and near-misses on football's grandest stage, fostering an intense rivalry with the Pittsburgh Steelers that would etch its way into NFL lore.
The Rise of "America's Team"
During the 1970s, the Cowboys clinched two Super Bowl victories. However, they also experienced heart-wrenching losses, falling short in three Super Bowls by a narrow combined margin of just 11 points. These close contests displayed the team's tenacity and potential but underscored the thin line between victory and defeat in professional football.
The addition of running back Tony Dorsett in 1977 bolstered the Cowboys' offensive arsenal. The team's defensive lineup also featured standout players like Ed "Too Tall" Jones, who would record 106 sacks over his 15-year career. Jones later reflected on the era, stating, "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."
A Rivalry for the Ages
The Pittsburgh Steelers were recognized as the 'Team of the Decade,' a title that was well-earned as they triumphed over the Cowboys in significant matchups, including two iconic Super Bowls. In Super Bowl X, the Steelers edged out the Cowboys with a score of 21-17, a game highlighted by Pittsburgh's four consecutive scores in the fourth quarter and a memorable 64-yard touchdown pass to Lynn Swann.
Super Bowl XIII further solidified this historic rivalry. It was the first Super Bowl to feature two teams that had both previously won multiple championships. Dallas initially had the upper hand, taking an early lead, but Pittsburgh's offensive onslaught shifted the momentum. The game also saw dramatic moments such as Jackie Smith's dropped touchdown pass and a critical pass interference call against Benny Barnes that led to a Franco Harris touchdown. Reflecting on the game, Jones remarked, "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."
Adapting to Change
The 1978 NFL rule changes were designed with the intent to hinder the Steelers' defensive prowess, but they inadvertently fortified Pittsburgh’s offense. Terry Bradshaw, the Steelers' quarterback, went on to earn the league MVP title that year, emphasizing the team's adaptability and resilience.
Despite these obstacles, the Cowboys continued to perform admirably. Super Bowl XIII saw Roger Staubach lead two late scoring drives, demonstrating the Cowboys' never-say-die attitude. Although they fell short with a final score of 35-31, the narrow margin repeated the story of their earlier close defeats.
A Legacy Beyond the Field
The impact of Ed "Too Tall" Jones extended beyond the gridiron. Beyond his football career, he has promoted mobility aids like Sportcane, acknowledging their significance in his daily life. He emphasized, "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." His advocacy highlights a commitment to improving the quality of life for others, demonstrating the wide-ranging influence prominent athletes can have.
The 1970s Dallas Cowboys, immortalized as "America's Team," left an indelible mark on football history. Their fierce rivalry with the Pittsburgh Steelers, marked by classic Super Bowl clashes, showcased the highs and lows of competitive sports at the highest level. While the Steelers' experience often tipped the scales in their favor, the Cowboys' grit and determination ensured their place in the annals of football legend.