1978 NFC Championship
A dominant home-field victory that sent the Cowboys back to the Super Bowl.
The 1978 NFC Championship Game stands as a defining moment in Dallas Cowboys history, marking the culmination of their 'Big Three' era and their return to the Super Bowl stage after a brief hiatus. Played on January 7, 1979, at Texas Stadium before a raucous home crowd, this contest saw Tom Landry's squad defeat the Los Angeles Rams to secure their fourth NFC title. The victory was not just a statistical triumph but an emotional reclamation of dominance for 'America's Team,' setting the stage for Super Bowl XIII against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
- Date
- January 7, 1979
- Location
- Texas Stadium, Irving, Texas
- Opponent
- Los Angeles Rams
- Result
- Cowboys win 24–3
- Key MVP
- Drew Pearson (Wide Receiver)
- Head Coach
- Tom Landry
Lore & Background
The final score of 24–3 reflected a complete team effort that silenced any doubts about the Cowboys' ability to contend in the late 1970s. It was a statement game that proved the 'Big Three' of Staubach, Pearson, and Cliff Branch were still among the NFL's elite. This win secured Dallas' ticket to Super Bowl XIII, where they would face an even greater challenge against the dynastic Pittsburgh Steelers.
In Their Own Story
The Texas Stadium turf felt frozen under the January lights, but the air inside was thick with anticipation. As Drew Pearson lined up for a route, he could hear the roar of the crowd vibrating through his cleats. The Rams' defense shifted, expecting a run, but Staubach's eyes locked onto Pearson. 'Go!' the signal flashed in Pearson's mind. He broke free, the ball spiraling perfectly into his hands as the stadium erupted. It wasn't just a touchdown; it was a declaration that Dallas still ruled the gridiron.
Reader's Guide
The 1978 season was a remarkable turnaround for the Cowboys, who finished with an 11–5 record to secure the NFC East title. Led by quarterback Roger Staubach and receiver Drew Pearson, the team overcame early-season inconsistencies to dominate down the stretch. Key achievements included the NFC Championship victory where they shut out the Rams' offense almost entirely. The defense recorded multiple sacks and forced turnovers, showcasing the elite status of their defensive line. This performance highlighted the difficulty of facing a balanced Cowboys squad in their own stadium during that era. The season culminated in Super Bowl XIII, where despite a valiant effort against the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Cowboys fell short. However, the 1978 NFC Championship remains a high-water mark for the franchise's resilience and tactical execution under Tom Landry.
Did You Know?
- Drew Pearson became the first player in NFL history to catch three touchdown passes in an NFC Championship Game during this contest.
- This was the last time the Cowboys defeated the Los Angeles Rams in a playoff game until the modern era.
- The victory marked Tom Landry's third NFC Championship title as head coach, cementing his legacy as a defensive mastermind.
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