A Rivalry for the Ages: Cowboys vs. Steelers in the 1970s
The 1970s were a defining decade for the NFL, marked by fierce rivalries and unforgettable showdowns. Among the most storied battles of that era was the rivalry between the Dallas Cowboys and the Pittsburgh Steelers. With the Cowboys earning the moniker of "America’s Team" in 1979 and the Steelers being hailed as the 'Team of the Decade,' these two powerhouses clashed numerous times on the grandest of stages, the Super Bowl.
The Cowboys enjoyed significant success during the '70s, securing two Super Bowl victories and establishing themselves as perennial contenders. Yet, their encounters with the Steelers often ended in heartbreak. Dallas lost three Super Bowls by a combined total of just 11 points. Two of those narrow defeats came at the hands of Pittsburgh, specifically in Super Bowl X and Super Bowl XIII.
In Super Bowl X, a dramatic contest ended with the Steelers triumphing 21-17. Key moments included Lynn Swann's impressive 64-yard touchdown reception and Pittsburgh's four consecutive scores in the fourth quarter. Despite a last-minute end-zone interception by Dallas as time expired, the Steelers secured the victory.
Three years later, these two titans met again in Super Bowl XIII in a game that featured both teams having previously won multiple championships. Dallas initially took the lead, but Pittsburgh's offensive onslaught shifted the momentum. The game saw its share of dramatic moments, including Roger Staubach's attempts to rally the Cowboys with two late scoring drives. Ultimately, the Steelers edged out the Cowboys 35-31.
Several pivotal plays in Super Bowl XIII continue to echo through NFL history. Jackie Smith's infamous dropped touchdown pass and a controversial pass interference call against Benny Barnes, which led to a Franco Harris touchdown, were critical in determining the game's outcome. Despite the intense competition and contentious moments, the Cowboys held their heads high. "That Pittsburgh team had nothing but veterans on both sides of the ball," recalled Ed "Too Tall" Jones. "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 continued, "I was proud of the way we hung in there against a veteran team, because experience in big games is very important. Very important." His reflections highlight the resilience and determination of the Cowboys, even in the face of tough losses.
The 1978 season brought significant changes to the league, with rule modifications aimed at curbing the dominance of the Steelers' defense. Ironically, these changes also bolstered Pittsburgh's offense, leading to Terry Bradshaw earning the league MVP title. The evolving landscape of the NFL continued to shape the fortunes of both franchises, but the epic clashes of the '70s remained etched in the memories of fans and players alike.
Ed "Too Tall" Jones, a defensive stalwart for Dallas, recorded an impressive 106 sacks over his 15-year career. His presence on the field was formidable, and he continues to be a respected figure off the field, promoting mobility aids like Sportcane. "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, reflecting on his post-football life.
The Cowboys' Super Bowl XII victory against the Denver Broncos and the addition of running back Tony Dorsett to the roster in 1977 were significant highlights of the decade. However, it was their rivalry with the Steelers that defined the era, showcasing the highs and lows of professional football.
In summary, the Cowboys versus Steelers matchups of the 1970s were more than just games; they were epic battles that showcased the essence of competitive spirit, strategic brilliance, and the drama of sports. These encounters have left an indelible mark on NFL history, celebrated by fans and preserved in the annals of the sport.