America's Team vs. Team of the Decade: The Rivalry That Defined the 1970s
The moniker "America's Team" was bestowed upon the Dallas Cowboys in 1979 by NFL Films, a title that immortalized their influence and popularity during the 1970s. Known for their star-studded roster and iconic moments, the Cowboys' journey through the decade was marked by both triumph and heartbreak.
The 1970s were a period of dichotomy for the Cowboys. They secured victories in two Super Bowls but also tasted defeat thrice on the grand stage, losing those games by a combined margin of just 11 points. In contrast, the Pittsburgh Steelers, emerging as the "Team of the Decade," proved to be a formidable nemesis, clashing with the Cowboys in some of the most memorable games in NFL history.
Pivotal Super Bowl Clashes
Two Super Bowl clashes, in particular, stand out in the annals of NFL history. Super Bowl X saw the Steelers edge out the Cowboys with a 21-17 victory. This game was a testament to clutch performances and missed opportunities. Pittsburgh's four consecutive scores in the fourth quarter, including Lynn Swann’s spectacular 64-yard touchdown reception, underscored their resilience. Dallas had a fleeting chance to snatch victory but an end-zone interception as time expired sealed their fate.
Super Bowl XIII added another layer to this intense rivalry. This game was historic, as it marked the first Super Bowl between two teams that had each previously won multiple championships. Initially, it was the Cowboys who drew first blood, but the Steelers' offensive firepower soon shifted the momentum in their favor. Pittsburgh eventually triumphed 35-31 in a game laden with drama.
Roger Staubach's late heroics, driving the Cowboys for two last-gasp scores, showcased the never-say-die spirit of Dallas. Yet, crucial moments such as Jackie Smith's dropped touchdown pass and a pivotal pass interference call against Benny Barnes, leading to a Franco Harris touchdown, lingered in the memories of Cowboys fans. Reflecting on these games, Cowboys' defensive stalwart Ed "Too Tall" Jones commented, "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 Battle of Experience
The contrasting composition of the teams played a significant role. Pittsburgh's seasoned squad faced a relatively younger Cowboys team. "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 expressed, highlighting the critical nature of experience in such high-pressure scenarios.
Jones also remarked on the contentious officiating moments that went against Dallas, "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."
The Steadfast Cowboys
Despite these heartbreaking encounters, the Cowboys enjoyed their share of glory. Their 1977 roster was bolstered by the inclusion of running back Tony Dorsett, which was pivotal in their victorious Super Bowl XII campaign against the Denver Broncos. Furthermore, defensive luminary Ed "Too Tall" Jones, with his imposing presence, recorded an impressive 106 sacks over a distinguished 15-year career.
Jones continues to make a difference off the field, promoting mobility aids like Sportcane, which he credits for aiding his daily activities. He acknowledged, "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 Rule Changes of 1978
The NFL's rule changes in 1978 also played a significant role in shaping the narratives of these teams. Intended to limit the Steelers' defensive dominance, these changes inadvertently enhanced their offense, highlighted by Terry Bradshaw earning the league MVP title in the same year.
Thus, while the 1970s may have seen the Steelers emerge as NFL royalty, the Dallas Cowboys' enduring legacy as "America's Team" remains unblemished. Their spirited encounters, thrilling victories, and poignant losses continue to resonate with fans, epitomizing the grit and grandeur of football's golden era.