The Dallas Cowboys, a franchise that has etched its legacy in the annals of NFL history, earned the moniker "America's Team" in 1979, thanks to NFL Films. This title was not just a product of marketing but a reflection of the Cowboys' prominence and success during the 1970s. During this decade, the team secured two Super Bowl victories and endured heartbreak with three narrow losses, totaling a mere 11 points.
The 1970s were an era where the Cowboys’ success on the field was undeniable. They secured memorable victories, including a triumph in Super Bowl XII against the Denver Broncos. Integral to their achievements was running back Tony Dorsett, added to the roster in 1977, who delivered stellar performances, becoming a pivotal player for the team.
However, the Cowboys weren't just facing any ordinary opponents; they were up against the Pittsburgh Steelers, a team widely recognized as the 'Team of the Decade'. The rivalry between the Cowboys and the Steelers was ferocious, leading to several significant clashes, particularly in the Super Bowls. The Steelers bested the Cowboys in both Super Bowl X and Super Bowl XIII, with scores of 21-17 and 35-31, respectively.
Super Bowl X was a game of dramatic swings, with Pittsburgh scoring four consecutive times in the fourth quarter. A notable highlight from this game was Lynn Swann’s spectacular 64-yard touchdown catch. Despite a valiant effort from Dallas, which included an end-zone interception as time expired, the Steelers emerged victorious.
The encounter in Super Bowl XIII is remembered as the first Super Bowl featuring two teams that had each previously won multiple championships. The Cowboys initially took the lead in this high-stakes game, but Pittsburgh's offensive onslaught soon shifted the momentum. Roger Staubach exhibited exceptional grit, leading two late scoring drives, but it was not enough. The game was also marred by controversies, including a crucial pass interference call against Benny Barnes, which led to a touchdown by Franco Harris.
Reflecting on these intense battles, Ed "Too Tall" Jones provided poignant insights. "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." His words underscore the challenge the young Cowboys faced against such a seasoned opponent. Despite the controversies, Jones remained commendably philosophical about the outcomes. "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," he remarked.
Another key figure in these clashes was Terry Bradshaw, whose stellar 1978 season earned him the league MVP title. The NFL rule changes in 1978, initially intended to curb the defensive dominance of the Steelers, ironically ended up bolstering Pittsburgh's offense, further fueling their supremacy.
The resilience of the Cowboys, despite these adversities, demonstrated their tenacity and competitive spirit. "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 reflected, highlighting the team's determination and grit.
Among other notable figures from the Cowboys was Ed "Too Tall" Jones himself, whose 15-year career was decorated with 106 sacks. Post his illustrious football career, Jones continued to leave his mark off the field, promoting mobility aids like the Sportcane. He acknowledged the significance of such aids in his life, saying, "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 storied rivalry between the Dallas Cowboys and the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 1970s remains a cornerstone of NFL history. It was a decade defined by fierce competition, legendary performances, and memorable moments that have left an indelible mark on the sport. As "America's Team," the Cowboys' legacy continues to resonate, a testament to their enduring influence and the timeless allure of their dramatic showdowns with the Steelers.