Washington Commanders Vs. Dallas Cowboys: A Rivalry Deep Dive

Nick Leason

-Oct 19, 2025

Washington Commanders Vs. Dallas Cowboys: A Rivalry Deep Dive

The Washington Commanders and the Dallas Cowboys, two storied franchises in the National Football League (NFL), have a historic and often fiery rivalry. This matchup, primarily defined by their NFC East divisional battles, ignites passionate fan bases and captivates audiences across the United States.

Key Takeaways

The Washington Commanders and Dallas Cowboys rivalry is one of the NFL's most enduring and intense.
The rivalry dates back to the Cowboys' inception in 1960, creating decades of memorable contests.
Both teams have experienced periods of dominance, leading to critical games with significant playoff implications.
Key figures, legendary players, and iconic moments have shaped the narrative of this historic matchup.
Understanding the historical context and current dynamics is crucial for appreciating the rivalry's significance.

Introduction

The clash between the Washington Commanders and the Dallas Cowboys represents more than just a football game; it's a cultural phenomenon steeped in history, competition, and regional pride. This rivalry, one of the most significant in the National Football League, has been a cornerstone of the NFC East division for over six decades. From legendary quarterbacks to controversial calls and improbable comebacks, the Washington vs. Dallas games have consistently delivered drama, passion, and unforgettable moments.

This article will delve into the rich history of this storied rivalry, exploring its origins, key eras, influential players, and the statistics that define their competitive balance. We'll examine what makes this matchup so compelling for fans and dissect the factors that continue to fuel the intensity whenever these two NFC East giants face off.

What is the Washington Commanders vs. Dallas Cowboys Rivalry?

The Washington Commanders (formerly the Washington Redskins) and the Dallas Cowboys rivalry is a fierce competition between two charter members of the NFL's NFC East division. It is one of the oldest and most intense rivalries in professional American football. The rivalry stems from their geographic proximity within the same division and their historical successes, which have often placed them in direct competition for division titles and playoff berths.

Why is this Rivalry Significant?

Several factors contribute to the enduring significance of the Washington vs. Dallas rivalry:

Historical Success: Both franchises boast a rich history of winning, including multiple Super Bowl championships. This success has created a legacy of high expectations and fierce competition.
Geographic Proximity: While separated by several hundred miles, both teams represent major media markets in the Eastern United States and draw passionate fan bases from overlapping regions.
NFC East Dominance: The rivalry has often been central to the narrative of the NFC East, with games between Washington and Dallas frequently deciding the fate of the division.
Iconic Players and Moments: Over the decades, countless Hall of Fame players and dramatic, game-defining moments have occurred in matchups between these two teams, etching them into NFL lore.
Cultural Significance: The rivalry has transcended the sport, becoming a point of pride and contention for fans, often reflected in media coverage and cultural discussions.

Risks and Perils of the Rivalry

While thrilling, the intensity of this rivalry can also bring certain downsides:

Fanaticism: The passionate fan bases can sometimes lead to extreme behavior or overly biased perspectives.
Media Hype: The constant media attention can amplify the stakes, sometimes overshadowing the sport itself.
Player Pressure: Players involved often face immense pressure to perform, which can lead to heightened emotions and on-field incidents.

How Did the Washington Commanders vs. Dallas Cowboys Rivalry Begin?

The rivalry between the Washington Commanders and the Dallas Cowboys officially began in 1960 when the Cowboys joined the National Football League as an expansion team. While Washington had already established itself as a league power, the arrival of Dallas immediately created a competitive dynamic within the newly formed Capitol Division (later the NFC East).

The Early Years (1960s):

From the outset, the games were hotly contested. Washington, led by legendary coach George Allen and star players like quarterback Sonny Jurgens and receiver Charley Taylor, aimed to assert their dominance. Dallas, under the guidance of coach Tom Landry and quarterback Don Meredith, quickly developed its own identity, pioneering the innovative "flex defense" and an exciting "shotgun" offense.

The Rise of the Cowboys and the Redskins' Response (1970s-1980s):

This era saw the Cowboys solidify their status as "America's Team," achieving significant success, including multiple Super Bowl victories. Washington, while not reaching the same heights consistently, remained a formidable opponent, particularly during the "Over-the-Hill Gang" era and later with Joe Gibbs' dominant teams of the 1980s, which also captured Super Bowl titles. The games during this period were often brutal defensive battles and high-stakes affairs.

Modern Era Dynamics (1990s-Present):

The rivalry has continued through various shifts in team fortunes. While both franchises have faced ups and downs, the intensity of their matchups has rarely waned. Key players like Troy Aikman and Emmitt Smith for Dallas, and quarterbacks like Mark Rypien and later Kirk Cousins for Washington, have provided compelling individual performances in this rivalry.

The introduction of new ownership and team branding (the Redskins becoming the Washington Football Team and then the Commanders) has added new layers, but the historical animosity and competitive spirit between these two clubs remain a central theme.

Key Eras and Defining Moments

Over more than 60 years, the Washington Commanders and Dallas Cowboys rivalry has been punctuated by distinct eras and unforgettable moments that have cemented its place in NFL history.

The 1970s: The Dominance of "America's Team"

This decade was largely defined by the Dallas Cowboys' ascension to national prominence. "America's Team," led by quarterback Roger Staubach and coach Tom Landry, became a perennial contender, appearing in five Super Bowls and winning two. Washington, while having strong teams and championship aspirations, often found themselves playing second fiddle to Dallas in the division.

Defining Games: Many playoff battles occurred, with Dallas often emerging victorious, much to the chagrin of Washington fans. The Cowboys' "Hail Mary" passes and dominant defensive stands became legendary.
Key Figures: Roger Staubach, Tony Dorsett, Randy White for Dallas; Sonny Jurgens, Charley Taylor, John Riggins for Washington.

The 1980s: The Joe Gibbs Era and Washington's Resurgence

The 1980s marked a significant turnaround for Washington under coach Joe Gibbs. The team achieved remarkable success, winning three Super Bowl titles with three different quarterbacks (Joe Theismann, Doug Williams, Mark Rypien). This era saw Washington consistently challenge Dallas, leading to some of the most intense matchups in the rivalry's history.

Defining Games: Games like the 1982 NFC Championship Game, where Washington shut out Dallas 31-7, stand out. John Riggins' powerful running game became iconic.
Key Figures: John Riggins, Joe Theismann, Art Monk, Doug Williams, Mark Rypien for Washington; Tony Dorsett, Danny White for Dallas.

The 1990s: The Cowboys' Dynasty

The early to mid-1990s saw the Dallas Cowboys re-establish themselves as the league's premier team, winning three Super Bowls in four years with their "Triplets" offense: Troy Aikman, Emmitt Smith, and Michael Irvin. While Washington struggled to find consistent success, their games against the Cowboys remained high-profile events. — Eagan, MN Zip Code: Full List & Map

Defining Games: Though often losing, Washington games were crucial for Dallas's path to their championships. The sheer talent mismatch often made these games must-watch television.
Key Figures: Troy Aikman, Emmitt Smith, Michael Irvin for Dallas; Mark Rypien, Gus Frerotte for Washington.

The 2000s and Beyond: Shifting Fortunes

This period has been more balanced, with neither team enjoying sustained dominance. Both franchises have experienced cycles of rebuilding and brief periods of success. Games have been crucial for playoff seeding and divisional pride.

Defining Moments: Key wins for Washington at FedExField, or crucial late-season matchups that impact playoff races, often define this era. The introduction of RGIII and his electric play against Dallas briefly reignited the rivalry's excitement.
Key Figures: Jason Garrett, Tony Romo, Dak Prescott for Dallas; Donovan McNabb, Robert Griffin III, Kirk Cousins, Alex Smith for Washington.

Statistical Snapshot: Washington vs. Dallas Through the Years

Numbers often tell a compelling story, and the Washington Commanders vs. Dallas Cowboys rivalry is no exception. While the overall series record can fluctuate, the statistics reveal a tightly contested matchup over their long history, punctuated by periods of dominance for each side.

All-Time Series Record:

As of the end of the 2023 NFL season, the Dallas Cowboys hold a significant edge in the all-time series against the Washington Commanders. This includes regular season and postseason games. The exact numbers can vary slightly depending on the source and which games are included, but Dallas has historically won more matchups.

Dallas Cowboys: Approximately 75+ wins
Washington Commanders: Approximately 48+ wins
Ties: A small number of ties have occurred.

Key Statistical Trends:

Home Field Advantage: Both teams have historically performed well at their respective home stadiums (AT&T Stadium for Dallas, FedExField for Washington), although road wins are celebrated with particular fervor.
Defensive Battles: Many games, especially in earlier eras and during certain periods, have been characterized by strong defensive play, leading to lower scores and hard-fought victories.
Offensive Fireworks: Conversely, other matchups have featured high-scoring affairs, often driven by standout quarterback performances or explosive offensive schemes.
Playoff Implications: A substantial number of games between Washington and Dallas have had direct impacts on playoff standings, divisional championships, and seeding, significantly raising the stakes.

Individual Milestones:

Numerous players have achieved significant statistical milestones against their rivals. Hall of Fame running back Emmitt Smith, for example, had many notable performances against Washington. For Washington, players like receiver Art Monk and running back John Riggins amassed impressive numbers in these crucial divisional contests.

Note: These statistics are subject to change with each new game played. For the most current record, official NFL statistics should be consulted.

Analyzing Player Impact: Legends of the Rivalry

No rivalry is built without the legendary players who embody its spirit on the field. The Washington Commanders and Dallas Cowboys have been graced by numerous Hall of Famers and Pro Bowl talents whose performances in this specific matchup have become part of NFL folklore.

Iconic Cowboys:

Roger Staubach (QB): "Captain America" led the Cowboys through much of their 1970s success, consistently outdueling Washington quarterbacks and engineering dramatic wins.
Tony Dorsett (RB): Known for his breakaway speed, Dorsett delivered electrifying runs against Washington, including his famous 99-yard touchdown run in 1983.
Emmitt Smith (RB): The NFL's all-time leading rusher was a consistent force against Washington, often carrying the Cowboys' offense to victory, especially during their 1990s dynasty.
Troy Aikman (QB): The leader of the 1990s dynasty, Aikman's calm demeanor and precise passing were instrumental in many wins over Washington.
Michael Irvin (WR): "The Playmaker" provided explosive plays and clutch catches that often decided games against the Commanders.

Iconic Commanders:

Sonny Jurgens (QB): One of Washington's early stars, Jurgens was a fierce competitor known for his toughness and leadership in the rivalry's formative years.
Charley Taylor (WR/RB): A versatile playmaker, Taylor was a consistent threat against Dallas throughout the late 1960s and 1970s.
John Riggins (RB): "The Diesel" became a folk hero for Washington fans, embodying the physicality of the rivalry. His dominant running and memorable quotes in games against Dallas are legendary.
Art Monk (WR): A model of consistency, Monk was a reliable target for Washington quarterbacks, often making crucial catches against Dallas defensive backs.
Doug Williams (QB): Williams etched his name in rivalry lore with his performance in the 1987 NFC Championship Game, leading Washington to a dominant win over the Cowboys.

These players, through their skill, passion, and sheer will, have not only defined their own eras but have also become synonymous with the Washington vs. Dallas rivalry, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations.

How to Watch and Follow the Rivalry

For fans eager to experience the intensity of the Washington Commanders vs. Dallas Cowboys rivalry, there are several ways to tune into the action. Their matchups are typically scheduled twice a season as part of the NFC East divisional games, often with high stakes attached.

Television Broadcasts:

National Networks: Games between Washington and Dallas are frequently selected for national television broadcasts on networks such as:
- FOX (often Sunday afternoon games)
- CBS (can be Sunday afternoon games)
- ESPN (Monday Night Football)
- NFL Network (Thursday Night Football or special matchups)
Local Broadcasts: If a game is not nationally televised, it will likely be broadcast on local affiliate stations in the Washington D.C. and Dallas-Fort Worth markets.

Streaming Services:

Live TV Streaming: Services like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, and FuboTV often carry the major sports networks broadcasting NFL games.
NFL+: The NFL's official streaming service allows access to out-of-market live games (for mobile devices) and replays.
Amazon Prime Video: Thursday Night Football games are exclusively streamed on Amazon Prime Video.

Radio Broadcasts:

Local Radio: Each team has flagship radio stations in their respective markets that broadcast all games live. For Washington, check Washington Commanders Radio Network affiliates. For Dallas, check the Dallas Cowboys Radio Network.
Satellite Radio: SiriusXM NFL Radio often carries live game audio for both teams.

Online and Social Media:

Official NFL Website/App: Provides live scores, game stats, and news updates.
Team Websites/Apps: The official sites for the Commanders and Cowboys offer exclusive content, recaps, and analysis.
Sports News Websites: ESPN, NFL.com, Bleacher Report, and others provide live blogs, game updates, and post-game analysis.
Social Media: Follow official team accounts and reputable sports journalists on platforms like Twitter (X) for real-time updates, highlights, and discussions.

Attending in Person:

Tickets for games between Washington and Dallas are highly sought after. They can be purchased through:

Team Box Offices: Direct sales from the Commanders or Cowboys.
Official Ticket Resellers: Ticketmaster, SeatGeek, etc.
Secondary Market: StubHub, Vivid Seats, etc.

Attending a game in person, whether at FedExField or AT&T Stadium, offers the most immersive experience of this storied rivalry.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: When did the rivalry between Washington and Dallas begin? A1: The rivalry officially began in 1960 when the Dallas Cowboys joined the NFL as an expansion team. Their first game was played in 1960, and it has been a significant part of the NFC East since.

Q2: Who has the all-time advantage in the series between Washington and Dallas? A2: Historically, the Dallas Cowboys hold the advantage in the all-time series, having won more games than the Washington Commanders. However, the exact numbers can fluctuate slightly with each new matchup.

Q3: Have Washington and Dallas ever met in the playoffs? A3: Yes, Washington and Dallas have met in the playoffs multiple times, most notably in the 1971 and 1982 NFC Championship Games, and the 1970 and 1971 Divisional Round games. These playoff battles have often been critical and intense.

Q4: What are some of the most famous moments in the Washington vs. Dallas rivalry? A4: Iconic moments include Tony Dorsett's 99-yard touchdown run in 1983, John Riggins' dominance in the 1980s, and Doug Williams' stellar performance in the 1987 NFC Championship Game. Numerous game-winning field goals and defensive stands also define the rivalry's history.

Q5: How has the rivalry changed since Washington became the Commanders? A5: While the team name and branding have changed from Redskins to Washington Football Team to Commanders, the intensity and historical significance of the rivalry with the Dallas Cowboys remain. The on-field competition and fan passion continue, rooted in decades of shared history. — Real Madrid: History, Trophies, And Key Players

Q6: Are Washington vs. Dallas games always close? A6: Not all games are close, as blowouts do occur. However, many matchups are fiercely contested, especially when divisional standings or playoff implications are on the line, contributing to the rivalry's reputation for drama.

Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of Washington vs. Dallas

The rivalry between the Washington Commanders and the Dallas Cowboys is more than just a divisional contest; it's a pillar of NFL history. Spanning over six decades, this matchup has consistently delivered high drama, legendary performances, and memorable moments that resonate with fans across the nation. From the early battles in the Capitol Division to the high-stakes NFC East showdowns of today, the competition between these two storied franchises has been a defining narrative of the league. — USPS Brooklyn NY: Locations, Hours, And Services

Whether you're a die-hard fan of either team or an admirer of football history, the Washington vs. Dallas games offer a compelling blend of competition, tradition, and passion. The historical statistics, the legendary players, and the sheer intensity of the matchups ensure that this rivalry will continue to be a highlight of the NFL season for years to come.

Don't miss the next chapter in this epic rivalry. Tune in to the upcoming Washington Commanders vs. Dallas Cowboys game and witness history unfold!

Last updated: September 11, 2024, 15:30 UTC