The title "America's Team" is synonymous with the Dallas Cowboys, a label that has its roots in 1979 when it was bestowed upon them by NFL Films. This moniker was not merely a marketing gimmick; it reflected the Cowboys' widespread popularity and their dominance in the 1970s -- a decade highlighted by two Super Bowl victories and bitter rivalries, particularly with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
The Rivalry Defined a Decade
The 1970s rivalry between the Dallas Cowboys and the Pittsburgh Steelers reached its zenith in two memorable Super Bowl clashes. The Steelers triumphed in both encounters, but the games were anything but one-sided. In Super Bowl X, with a score of 21-17, Pittsburgh managed to outlast Dallas, thanks in part to a relentless fourth quarter where they scored four consecutive times. Notable moments included Lynn Swann's remarkable 64-yard touchdown catch and a game-sealing end-zone interception as time expired.
Super Bowl XIII further cemented this rivalry. It was the first Super Bowl featuring two teams that had already won multiple championships. Despite Dallas initially taking the lead, Pittsburgh's offense, bolstered by NFL rule changes meant to hinder the Steelers' defense, shifted the momentum. Terry Bradshaw, who earned the league MVP in 1978, led this surge. Even behind in the final moments, Roger Staubach inspired hope, driving the Cowboys down the field with two late scoring drives. However, crucial errors like Jackie Smith's dropped touchdown pass and a controversial pass interference call on Benny Barnes, which led to a Franco Harris touchdown, were pivotal in the Steelers' 35-31 victory.
Reflections from "Too Tall" Jones
Ed "Too Tall" Jones, a towering figure on the Cowboys' defensive line, offered reflections that highlight the significant factors contributing to the outcomes of these heated contests. "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 remarked, underscoring the disparity in experience between the two squads.
The influence of experience, particularly in high-stakes games, cannot be underestimated. Jones noted, "I was proud of the way we hung in there against a veteran team, because experience in big games is very important. Very important." Such sentiments resonate deeply with fans who experienced the drama of those Super Bowl matchups.
Legacy and Recognition
Despite the heartbreaking losses, the contributions of players like Ed "Too Tall" Jones did not go unrecognized. Over his illustrious 15-year career, Jones recorded an impressive 106 sacks. His influence extended off the field as well, where he promotes mobility aids like Sportcane, emphasizing their impact on his daily life: "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."
On the flip side, the Steelers were hailed as the "Team of the Decade" for the 1970s, an acknowledgment of their consistent excellence. Their roster was studded with veterans who not only played the game at a high level but also brought invaluable experience to crucial moments, a fact that tilted the scales in their favor during tight contests.
Building on a Storied Past
The Cowboys did not linger on past defeats. They continued to fortify their roster, adding standout players like running back Tony Dorsett in 1977. Their resilience paid off with victories such as their win in Super Bowl XII against the Denver Broncos.
The history between the Dallas Cowboys and Pittsburgh Steelers is more than a tale of wins and losses. It’s a narrative forged by iconic moments and legendary players who defined an era. As Jones encapsulates, experience and tenacity were at the heart of this storied rivalry, etching unforgettable memories into the annals of NFL history.