Ep 6. America's Game #15: 1971 Cowboys

America's Game: The Super Bowl Champions, Season 1 is a documentary series that explores the stories of the teams who have won the ultimate prize in the NFL - the Super Bowl. In season 1 episode 6, titled "America's Game #15: 1971 Cowboys", the focus is on the Dallas Cowboys' Super Bowl VI victory over the Miami Dolphins.

The episode begins by setting the stage for the 1971 season, which was a highly anticipated one for the Cowboys. Led by quarterback Roger Staubach and a dominant defense, Dallas had come close to winning the Super Bowl in the previous two seasons, but fallen short both times. The team was determined to finally capture the championship in 1971.

The documentary goes on to highlight some of the key moments from the regular season, including a game against the New England Patriots in which Staubach was knocked out of the game. The Cowboys managed to rally behind backup quarterback Craig Morton and win the game, demonstrating the depth and resilience of the team.

Next, the episode turns its attention to the playoffs, which proved to be a challenging road for the Cowboys. They faced off against the Minnesota Vikings in the divisional round in what was dubbed the "Ice Bowl II", a frigid game played in sub-zero temperatures. Despite the freezing conditions, the Cowboys managed to come out on top in a hard-fought battle.

The NFC Championship game against the San Francisco 49ers was another tough contest, but the Cowboys managed to pull out a victory to earn a spot in Super Bowl VI. Their opponent was the Miami Dolphins, an up-and-coming team that was making its first appearance in the Super Bowl.

The episode delves into the details of the Super Bowl matchup, showcasing the strengths and weaknesses of both teams. The Cowboys' defense, led by players like Bob Lilly and Lee Roy Jordan, was particularly impressive, holding the Dolphins to just three points in the game. Meanwhile, Staubach was masterful at quarterback, throwing two touchdown passes and earning the game's MVP award.

Throughout the episode, viewers get to hear from many of the key players and coaches from the 1971 Cowboys team, as well as other experts and commentators. Their insights and memories add depth and context to the story, helping viewers to truly appreciate the magnitude of the Cowboys' achievement.

Overall, "America's Game #15: 1971 Cowboys" is a compelling episode that offers a thrilling look back at one of the greatest teams in NFL history. Whether you're a diehard Cowboys fan or just a lover of football, this episode is sure to captivate and entertain.