the all-time series between the Dallas Cowboys and San Francisco 49ers is tied at 17-17-1. The 49ers lead the regular-…

the all-time series between the Dallas Cowboys and San Francisco 49ers is tied at 17-17-1. The 49ers lead the regular-…

The rivalry between the Dallas Cowboys and the San Francisco 49ers is one of the most storied in NFL history, marked by iconic moments, legendary players, and high-stakes matchups. As of now, the all-time series between these two teams is tied at 17-17-1, reflecting the competitive nature of their encounters over the decades. While the 49ers hold a slight edge in the regular season, the Cowboys have often had the upper hand in the playoffs, creating a balanced and intriguing rivalry.

Historical Overview

The Cowboys and 49ers first faced each other in 1960, shortly after the Cowboys joined the NFL as an expansion team. At that time, the 49ers were already an established franchise, having played in the NFL since 1946. The early matchups were often one-sided, as the Cowboys struggled in their formative years, but things changed dramatically by the late 1960s.

The rivalry truly began to take shape in the 1970s, when both teams were perennial playoff contenders. The Cowboys, under the leadership of head coach Tom Landry, and the 49ers, with their talented roster led by quarterback John Brodie, frequently clashed in meaningful games. This era saw Dallas dominate the series, including a decisive victory in the 1971 NFC Championship Game, which propelled the Cowboys to their first Super Bowl title.

The 1980s: A New Chapter

The rivalry entered a new phase in the 1980s, fueled by the rise of two legendary quarterbacks: Joe Montana for the 49ers and Danny White for the Cowboys. The 49ers, under head coach Bill Walsh, became a dynasty, winning four Super Bowls during the decade. One of the most iconic moments in NFL history came in