America’s Team carried a mantra that resonated with millions of Americans across the country, becoming synonymous with success. During the 20-year span where the beloved Dallas Cowboys dominated, four Lombardi trophies came home to Dallas. Stars like Troy Aikman, Emmitt Smith, and Michael Irvin were the faces of football. The Cowboys built a nucleus of stars that went nearly unmatched by any team in football.
Fortunately for the rest of the league, 1998 was the final year of Dallas’ illustrious run. The roster they compiled was not sustainable and the franchise felt the aftereffects. What was once America’s Team has failed to make the Super Bowl for a stretch lasting more two decades. Over the course of that drought, Dallas has seen stars such as Tony Romo and Jason Witten, but neither brought a trophy home.
In recent years, the Cowboys, led by Jerry and Stephen Jones, have begun to assemble a new team of young stars. Elite draft classes and sacrificing the media hype of a skill position in the first round has granted Dallas with a window many are envious of. A balanced roster filled with young talent and grizzled veterans has put the Cowboys back on the map.
The upside for the Cowboys team is certainly apparent, and it is enough to outweigh many negatives heading into the year. The only thing standing in their way seems to be the reigning super bowl champions. Now, dethroning them is no small task, but Dallas has one of the best bets to do so. Here are five reasons why America’s Team is a true contender.
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