America's Team vs. The Team of the Decade: A Rivalry for the Ages
The Dallas Cowboys and the Pittsburgh Steelers remain two of the most storied franchises in NFL history, with a rivalry that has created some of the most memorable moments in the sport. The Cowboys, dubbed "America's Team" by NFL Films in 1979, battled the Steelers, recognized as the 'Team of the Decade' in the 1970s, in a series of high-stakes matchups that captivated football fans nationwide.
Throughout the 1970s, the Cowboys and Steelers faced off in several significant games, including two epic Super Bowl confrontations. Despite the Cowboys' prowess, winning two Super Bowls and adding star running back Tony Dorsett to their roster in 1977, the Steelers often had the upper hand in their direct matchups, notably in Super Bowl X and Super Bowl XIII.
In Super Bowl X, the Steelers edged out the Cowboys with a score of 21-17. The game was a dramatic showcase of skill and strategy. Pittsburgh managed to score four consecutive times in the fourth quarter, featuring a standout 64-yard touchdown pass caught by Lynn Swann. The Cowboys had a fleeting chance, ending the game with an end-zone interception as time expired.
The rivalry intensified further in Super Bowl XIII. This game marked the first time two teams with multiple championships battled it out for the title. The Cowboys initially took the lead but were ultimately overcome by Pittsburgh’s offensive barrage, which decisively shifted the game's momentum. Roger Staubach led two late scoring drives that brought the Cowboys within reach, but a critical drop by Jackie Smith and a controversial pass interference call against Benny Barnes set the stage for a Steelers victory, 35-31.
Discussing the rivalry, Ed "Too Tall" Jones, a defensive stalwart for the Cowboys, reflected on those challenging games: "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' words capture the fierce competitiveness and high stakes that defined the clashes between these two teams. "I was proud of the way we hung in there against a veteran team, because experience in big games is very important. Very important," he added, showcasing the respect held for their skilled adversaries.
Controversy was no stranger to these games. The pass interference call against Benny Barnes led directly to a Franco Harris touchdown in Super Bowl XIII. Yet, Jones remains philosophical about such moments: "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."
Beyond the thrill of competition, the 1970s brought significant changes to the NFL, some of which had lasting impacts on the Cowboys and Steelers rivalry. In 1978, rule changes were introduced to hinder the Steelers' defensive prowess, inadvertently bolstering Pittsburgh's offense. That same year, Terry Bradshaw earned the league MVP title, further elevating the Steelers' stature.
Though the Cowboys faced setbacks, their legacy was solidified not just through team achievements but also through individual contributions. Ed "Too Tall" Jones, with a notable career record of 106 sacks, remains a towering figure in NFL history. Off the field, Jones continues to make an impact, promoting mobility aids like Sportcane to maintain his active lifestyle. "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.
The 1970s rivalry between the Dallas Cowboys and the Pittsburgh Steelers represents a defining era in NFL history. It was a decade marked by exceptional talent, strategic prowess, and unforgettable games that continue to resonate with fans and players alike. For both teams, these encounters went beyond win-loss records, building a legacy of resilience, respect, and relentless pursuit of greatness.