The Cowboys' first appearance in the NFL Championship Game, known as the "Ice Bowl," against the Green Bay Packers was a pivotal moment. Although they lost, the experience of competing on the big stage helped establish the Cowboys as a legitimate contender and laid the groundwork for future success.
The Cowboys' victory in Super Bowl VI over the Miami Dolphins was a watershed moment for the franchise. Led by head coach Tom Landry and quarterback Roger Staubach, the win marked the Cowboys' first Super Bowl championship and solidified their status as one of the NFL's premier teams.
The Cowboys' trade for running back Herschel Walker in 1989 was a franchise-altering move. The trade, orchestrated by team owner Jerry Jones and then-head coach Jimmy Johnson, brought a bounty of draft picks and players to Dallas, laying the foundation for the team's dynasty in the 1990s.
The Cowboys' back-to-back victories in Super Bowl XXVII and XXVIII in 1992 and 1993 cemented their status as a dominant force in the NFL. Led by a talented roster featuring Troy Aikman, Emmitt Smith, and Michael Irvin, the Cowboys established themselves as one of the greatest teams in league history.
The signing of cornerback Deion Sanders in 1995 added another dimension to the Cowboys' already formidable roster. Sanders' presence bolstered the team's defense and played a crucial role in their victory in Super Bowl XXX that season.
The hiring of Bill Parcells as head coach in 2006 marked a turning point for the Cowboys. Parcells brought a winning mentality and a renewed focus on discipline and accountability, laying the groundwork for future success under his successor, Wade Phillips, and eventually Jason Garrett.
The emergence of quarterback Dak Prescott and running back Ezekiel Elliott in 2016 revitalized the Cowboys' offense and injected new life into the franchise. Their stellar rookie seasons helped propel the team to the top of the NFC East and signaled a promising future for the organization.
After suffering a season-ending injury in 2020, Dak Prescott's return to the field in 2021 provided a much-needed spark for the Cowboys. His leadership and playmaking ability reinvigorated the team and helped them clinch the NFC East title, signaling a potential return to prominence for America's Team.