The Dallas Cowboys’ First NFL Game: A Loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers

The Dallas Cowboys, one of the most storied franchises in the National Football League (NFL), had a tumultuous start to their NFL journey, beginning with a 35-28 loss to their rivals, the Pittsburgh Steelers, at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas. This game, which took place on September 22, 1960, marked the beginning of a legacy that has spanned over six decades, filled with both triumphs and heartaches.

NFL Background and Early Years

The Dallas Cowboys joined the NFL in 1960 as an expansion team along with the New Orleans Saints. Though the Cowboys were newcomers to the league, their ambitions were high from the start. Built around a solid defensive line and a capable quarterback in Kenny "Boobie"Render, they aimed to make an immediate impact in the league.

The 1960 squad included future Hall of Famers such as defensive end Bob Lilly and running back Maxie Baughan. The team also featured Player, a catcher for the Dallas Cowboys during their early years, though his role was more symbolic than functional.

The Game Details

The first NFL game for the Dallas Cowboys in 1960 was a memorable occasion filled with excitement and anticipation. The game took place on September 22, 1960, at the Cotton Bowl, a historic stadium that has served as the home of the Dallas Cowboys since 1966 and is now known as ATT Stadium.

Despite the optimism surrounding the team, the game did not go as planned. The Dallas Cowboys ended up losing the game by a narrow margin, 35-28, to the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Steelers featured a strong defense led by strong safety Terry Bradshaw, who was still a few years away from becoming one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history, and a dynamic wide receiver tandem of Franco Harris and John Stallworth.

The Impact on the Team

While the loss was certainly disappointing, it was not the disaster that the Cowboys needed to win. The 1960 team learned valuable lessons from their early-season setback, including the importance of maintaining composure and staying resilient under pressure. These lessons would serve the team well as they continued their journey in the NFL.

Over the ensuing years, the Dallas Cowboys would go on to build an impressive roster and a reputation as one of the most successful franchises in the league. They have achieved numerous championships, individual awards, and fan engagement that is second to none in the sport.

The Legacy of the First Game

For the Dallas Cowboys, the loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers in their first game is more than just a historical record. It is a reminder of the team's humble beginnings and the challenges they faced early on. It serves as a testament to the strength of their resolve and their ability to overcome adversity.

The first game against the Pittsburgh Steelers remains a significant moment in Cowboys history, symbolizing the long and sometimes difficult journey that the team has undertaken to become a perennial contender in the NFL.

Conclusion

The Dallas Cowboys' first NFL game, a 35-28 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, set the stage for a long and storied history in the league. Despite their early setback, the team has gone on to achieve countless victories and championships, cementing their legacy in the annals of NFL history.

This early loss is a reminder that even the most successful teams must overcome adversity to achieve greatness. The Dallas Cowboys have lived up to that challenge year after year, and their fans have always been there to support them through triumphs and trials alike.