'Tis The Season: Rank The Cowboys

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Post on Dec 26, 2024

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'Tis the Season: Rank the Cowboys

The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than by ranking the Dallas Cowboys? From America's Team to… well, sometimes less than America's Team, the Cowboys always generate passionate opinions. So, let's dive into a festive ranking of the Cowboys' various incarnations, considering their impact on the NFL landscape and the hearts of fans.

The Methodology: A Blend of Nostalgia and Numbers

Ranking the Cowboys isn't a simple task. We're not just looking at Super Bowl wins (though those certainly matter!). We're considering a holistic approach, blending:

• Super Bowl Victories & Appearances: The ultimate measure of success.
• Sustained Excellence: Did they dominate for a period, or were they flashes in the pan?
• Cultural Impact: America's Team isn't just a title; it represents a lasting influence on the NFL's popularity.
• Iconic Players: From Staubach to Aikman to… well, you get the idea. The Cowboys have boasted some of the league's biggest stars.

This isn't a purely statistical ranking; it incorporates the intangible elements that make the Cowboys… the Cowboys.

The Ranking: A Holiday Countdown

Here's our festive countdown of the Dallas Cowboys, from the most recent eras to some of the legendary teams:

Tier 1: The Dynasty Eras (The Top Tier)

This tier is reserved for the Cowboys teams that defined eras and left an indelible mark on the NFL.

1. The Landry Era (1960s-1970s): This is the gold standard. Tom Landry's disciplined, innovative teams dominated the NFL, securing five NFL championships and two Super Bowl victories. This era solidified the Cowboys' place as a powerhouse and laid the foundation for their enduring popularity. Iconic Players: Roger Staubach, Bob Lilly, Don Meredith.

2. The Aikman Era (1990s): Jimmy Johnson and Barry Switzer guided this era to three Super Bowl appearances and two Super Bowl wins. This team was a dominant force, boasting a potent offense and a stellar defense. Iconic Players: Troy Aikman, Emmitt Smith, Michael Irvin.

Tier 2: The Contenders (Strong Performances)

These teams consistently made deep playoff runs, demonstrating sustained excellence but falling short of ultimate glory.

3. The Early 2000s (Parcells Era): Bill Parcells brought a winning culture back to Dallas, leading to several playoff appearances. Although they didn't reach the Super Bowl, this era showed a return to competitiveness. Iconic Players: Emmitt Smith (later years), Troy Aikman (final years).

4. Selected playoff teams of the 2010s and 2020s: While lacking the sustained dominance of previous eras, recent playoff teams have shown flashes of brilliance and hint at the potential for a return to greatness. This ranking is fluid and will change based on future performance.

Tier 3: The Building Blocks (Potential for Future Greatness)

These teams represent eras of rebuilding or transition, laying the groundwork for future success. It's important to note that future performance will greatly influence their final ranking.

5. Current and Recent Era (Post-Aikman): A mix of highs and lows, this era is still developing its legacy. Success will dictate where it ultimately lands in the rankings.

The Takeaway: A Legacy Built on Glory and Grit

Ranking the Cowboys is a subjective endeavor, reflecting individual perspectives and cherished memories. However, the consistent presence of legendary players, coaching prowess, and moments of unparalleled success solidify their position as one of the NFL's most storied franchises. 'Tis the season to celebrate their legacy – and to look forward to what the future may hold. What are your thoughts? Which era ranks highest in your book? Let's discuss in the comments!