1980 NFC Divisional Playoff vs. Dallas Cowboys

Lore & Background

After a 3–3 start, the Falcons went on a nine-game winning streak as quarterback Steve Bartkowski passed for a career-best 3,544 yards while connecting on 31 touchdown passes. As the NFC's top seed, the Falcons gained home-field advantage throughout the playoffs. The Falcons' season ended with a 30–27 divisional playoff loss to the Dallas Cowboys before 60,022 fans at Fulton County Stadium.

In Their Own Story

The cold December air bit at the fans packed into Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium as the fourth quarter wore on. Steve Bartkowski, eyes locked on the end zone, threw a deep pass that hung in the air for an eternity before being tipped by a Dallas defender. The ball spun out of reach, landing harmlessly in the grass. Around him, the roar of the crowd turned into a collective groan, the sound of a dream deferred once again against the giants from Texas.

Reader's Guide

This would be the last time the Falcons capture a winning record in a non strike season until 1991, as well as their last division title until 1998.

Did You Know?

• The Falcons' first division title in franchise history came in 1980.
• Steve Bartkowski set a career best with 3,544 passing yards and 31 touchdown passes in 1980.
• The Falcons lost the divisional playoff 30–27 to the Dallas Cowboys at Fulton County Stadium.