Commanders-Cowboys Rivalry: A Deep Dive into the Statistics and Snapshots
The Washington Commanders and the Dallas Cowboys have one of the most intense and storied rivalries in the National Football League (NFL). This rivalry is steeped in decades of competition, high-stakes games, and unforgettable moments that have captivated NFL fans from coast to coast. From the days of the legendary players to the modern showdowns, the rivalry between these two NFC East teams has consistently been a spectacle of football greatness. In this article, we will delve deep into the statistics, historical context, and key snapshots from the Commanders-Cowboys rivalry that have helped shape one of the most compelling matchups in NFL history.
Historical Context of the Rivalry
The roots of the Washington Commanders (formerly Washington Redskins) and the Dallas Cowboys rivalry stretch back to the early days of the NFL. The rivalry began to take shape in the 1960s, when the Cowboys emerged as a force in the league and Washington was a competitive contender in the NFC. With both teams residing in the NFC East, games between them quickly became crucial to the playoff race, and tensions between the two fan bases began to build.
What makes this rivalry unique is not only the geographical proximity—Dallas and Washington are separated by roughly 200 miles—but also the dramatic contrasts in team identity and fan culture. The Cowboys have long prided themselves on their “America’s Team” moniker, with a rich history of success that includes five Super Bowl championships. Meanwhile, the Commanders have a storied past filled with ups and downs but also three Super Bowl victories and a passionate fan base that has stayed loyal through thick and thin.
While both teams have gone through periods of dominance, the rivalry is characterized by fierce competition and a mutual disdain that only grows with every meeting. Whether it’s a critical late-season game or an early season showdown, fans eagerly await these matchups as they typically carry weight in the standings and playoff picture.
All-Time Head-to-Head Record
Over the years, the Commanders and Cowboys have faced off numerous times, each game contributing to the lore of their rivalry. As of the end of the 2024 season, the Cowboys lead the all-time series with a 77-48-2 record. While this is a significant advantage for Dallas, the rivalry has seen periods of Washington dominance, particularly in the 1980s and early 1990s, when the Commanders regularly competed with the Cowboys for NFC East supremacy.
It is worth noting that while Dallas has historically been the stronger team in terms of total victories, the series is often closely contested, with many games being decided by narrow margins. Additionally, the two teams have frequently faced each other in postseason matchups, further intensifying the rivalry.
Key Historical Moments and Games
While the rivalry is defined by a series of competitive games, certain matchups stand out in the memories of fans:
1. 1982 NFC Championship Game – A Legendary Battle
One of the most iconic moments in the rivalry occurred on January 22, 1983, when the Washington Redskins (as they were known at the time) faced the Cowboys in the NFC Championship game. With a spot in Super Bowl XVII on the line, the game was a back-and-forth battle that showcased the hard-nosed, physical style of both teams. Washington emerged victorious with a 31-17 win, propelled by standout performances from quarterback Joe Theismann and running back John Riggins. The game was notable not only for its high stakes but also for the sheer drama that unfolded, with a late-game surge by Washington sealing the win and sending them to the Super Bowl.
2. 2012 Thanksgiving Game – RGIII’s Arrival
Fast forward to 2012, and the Commanders-Cowboys rivalry had a new star in the mix—Robert Griffin III (RGIII), the dynamic rookie quarterback for Washington. On Thanksgiving Day that year, the Commanders and Cowboys squared off in a high-scoring, back-and-forth game that had all the drama and excitement the rivalry is known for. RGIII displayed his explosive talents, throwing for 304 yards and four touchdowns, leading Washington to a 38-31 victory. This game marked the beginning of RGIII’s promising career and set the stage for Washington’s playoff run that year.
3. The 2021 Week 14 Matchup – A Hard-Hitting Clash
Another memorable chapter in the rivalry came during the 2021 season when the Commanders and Cowboys faced off in a critical Week 14 game. The Cowboys were on a roll, leading the NFC East, while the Commanders were still fighting for a playoff spot. Despite the Cowboys’ strong season, Washington put up a tough fight, ultimately losing 27-20 in a gritty battle that featured multiple turnovers and strong defensive play from both sides. This game was indicative of the physicality and intense competition that defines the rivalry.
Key Players in the Rivalry
Throughout the years, many players have helped define this rivalry, creating iconic moments and unforgettable plays. Some of the most important names in the history of the rivalry include:
1. Roger Staubach (Cowboys Quarterback)
Roger Staubach is a legend in both Dallas and NFL history, and his career coincided with many memorable games against the Commanders. Known for his late-game heroics and leadership, Staubach led the Cowboys through many pivotal moments in the rivalry, including several playoff showdowns. His ability to lead his team in clutch situations cemented his legacy as one of the greatest quarterbacks to ever play the game.
2. Darrell Green (Commanders Cornerback)
One of the most celebrated figures in Commanders history, Darrell Green was known for his speed, defensive prowess, and leadership on the field. Green’s battles with Cowboys receivers like Michael Irvin and Drew Pearson were legendary, and his rivalry with Dallas became a defining aspect of his Hall of Fame career. Green’s ability to shut down top receivers and his relentless work ethic made him a key figure in many Washington victories over the Cowboys.
3. Emmitt Smith (Cowboys Running Back)
Emmitt Smith, the NFL’s all-time leading rusher, is another iconic player who made his mark in the Commanders-Cowboys rivalry. Smith’s dominance on the field was a key factor in Dallas’ success during the 1990s, and many of his most memorable performances came against Washington. Whether it was his ability to break tackles or his knack for making big plays in the most important moments, Smith was a crucial part of the Cowboys’ dominance in the rivalry during the 1990s.
4. Santana Moss (Commanders Wide Receiver)
Santana Moss was one of the Commanders’ most explosive playmakers in the 2000s, and his performances against the Cowboys were often electrifying. Known for his deep-threat ability and knack for making big catches in crucial moments, Moss delivered some of the most memorable performances in recent years against Dallas. His iconic 2005 game-winning touchdown reception in overtime remains one of the defining moments in Washington’s recent history.
Key Statistical Categories in the Rivalry
When analyzing the rivalry through the lens of statistics, several categories stand out as particularly important:
1. Passing Yards
Over the years, both teams have featured some of the NFL’s best quarterbacks. As a result, passing yards have often been a significant factor in deciding the outcome of these games. Historically, the Cowboys have had the edge in this category, with quarterbacks like Staubach, Troy Aikman, and Tony Romo leading the charge. However, Washington has also had its fair share of impressive quarterbacks, such as Theismann, Kirk Cousins, and RGIII, who have kept the passing game competitive.
2. Rushing Yards
Rushing yards have been another critical statistic in the rivalry, as both teams have traditionally relied on strong running games to wear down their opponents. Dallas, with players like Emmitt Smith, has often dominated this category, but Washington has had its own share of standout running backs, including John Riggins and Clinton Portis. The ability to establish the running game has often played a pivotal role in the outcome of these matchups.
3. Turnovers
Turnovers have been a major factor in the rivalry, as both teams have experienced their fair share of mistakes. The Commanders and Cowboys have both had seasons marked by high turnover rates, and games that feature a significant turnover differential often end up being decided by a single possession. Turnovers in critical moments have swung the momentum of these games, often leading to dramatic upsets or securing dominant victories.
