Welcome to our podcast on Super Bowl 12, a game that showcased the dominance of one of the most iconic teams in NFL history. This matchup between the Dallas Cowboys and the Denver Broncos took place on January 15, 1978, at the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana. As we delve into the details of this historic game, we'll explore the lead-up, the key players, the dramatic moments, and the lasting impact of what would become the Cowboys' second Super Bowl victory. The 1977 NFL season was a year of redemption for the Dallas Cowboys. After losing Super Bowl 10 to the Pittsburgh Steelers two years earlier, the Cowboys were determined to reclaim their place at the top of the NFL. Led by head coach Tom Landry, the Cowboys had built a team that combined veteran leadership with young talent, creating a formidable force on both sides of the ball. The Cowboys finished the regular season with an impressive 12 and 2 record, the best in the NFC. Their offense was a well-oiled machine, featuring a balanced attack that could beat opponents through the air or on the ground. At the helm was quarterback Roger Staubach, known as "Captain America" for his leadership and clutch performances. Staubach had a stellar season, throwing for 2,620 yards and 18 touchdowns. Staubach’s primary targets were wide receivers Drew Pearson and Tony Hill, along with tight end Billy Joe DuPree Pearson, in particular, was known for his ability to make crucial catches in big moments, earning him the nickname "Mr. Clutch." The Cowboys' running game was anchored by Tony Dorsett, a rookie sensation who rushed for 1,007 yards and 12 touchdowns in his debut season. On defense, the Cowboys boasted the famous "Doomsday Defense," led by defensive tackle Randy White and defensive end Harvey Martin. The linebacking corps featured Thomas "Hollywood" Henderson, while the secondary was anchored by safety Charlie Waters. This unit was known for its aggressive play and ability to create turnovers. The Denver Broncos, representing the AFC, were making their first Super Bowl appearance in franchise history. Led by head coach Red Miller, the Broncos had surprised many by finishing the regular season with a 12 and 2 record and defeating the defending champion Oakland Raiders in the AFC Championship game. The Broncos' offense was led by quarterback Craig Morton, who had previously played for the Cowboys and was now facing his former team in the biggest game of his career. Morton's primary targets were wide receivers Haven Moses and Jack Dolbin. The Broncos' running game was a committee approach, with Otis Armstrong and Rob Lytle sharing the workload. On defense, the Broncos boasted the "Orange Crush Defense," nicknamed for their orange uniforms and crushing style of play. This unit was led by linebacker Randy Gradishar and defensive end Lyle Alzaydough, the Broncos' defense had been crucial to their success throughout the season, often winning games despite a sometimes inconsistent offense. As game day approached, there was a sense of anticipation and excitement. The Cowboys were favored, but the Broncos' Cinderella story had captured the imagination of many fans. The stage was set for what promised to be an epic battle between two of the NFL's best teams. The game began with both teams feeling each other out. The Cowboys received the opening kickoff but were forced to punt after a quick three-and-out. The Broncos' first possession showed promise, with Morton completing a couple of passes to move the chains. However, the drive stalled, and Denver was forced to punt as well. The first score of the game came midway through the first quarter when Cowboys kicker Efren Herrera connected on a 35 yard field goal, giving Dallas a 3 to zero lead. This score was set up by a 25 yard pass from Staubach to Drew Pearson, showcasing the Cowboys' big play ability. The Broncos responded with a drive of their own, moving into Cowboys territory. However, the Dallas defense stiffened, forcing Denver to attempt a 47 yard field goal. Jim Turner's attempt fell short, keeping the score 3 to zero in favor of the Cowboys. As the second quarter began, the Cowboys started to assert their dominance. Staubach led a methodical drive down the field, mixing short passes with runs from Dorsett. The drive culminated in a 3 yard touchdown pass from Staubach to tight end Billy Joe DuPree, extending the Cowboys' lead to 10 to zero. The Broncos, feeling the pressure, tried to respond quickly. Morton attempted to go deep to Haven Moses, but Cowboys safety Charlie Waters made a spectacular leaping interception, giving Dallas the ball back in good field position. The Cowboys capitalized on this turnover with another Efren Herrera field goal, pushing their lead to 13 to zero. As halftime approached, the Broncos managed to get on the scoreboard with a 47 yard field goal from Jim Turner, making the score 13 to 3 at the break. While the Broncos had shown flashes of competitiveness, the Cowboys' ...
