There’s no question the Dallas Cowboys are one of the most recognizable franchises in sports, but do they deserve all their time in the spotlight?! Sure, they boast a massive fanbase and have lucrative sponsorship deals, but the truth is the team hasn’t had much success in almost 30 years. Here are 10 reasons why the Dallas Cowboys are the most overrated team in sports.
Lack of Recent Playoff Success
Let’s face it guys, Dallas hasn’t been good in decades. In fact, despite their reputation as a powerhouse, the Cowboys haven’t reached the NFC Championship Game since 1996. That’s almost 30 years! For a team heralded as a perennial contender, failing to achieve playoff success for nearly three decades is a glaring disconnect between perception and reality.
Overhyped Every Season
No matter what happened the season before, the Cowboys always dominate headlines during the off-season. Analysts and fans speculate about their potential, yet, year after year, they fall short of expectations.
Too Much Coverage!
Let’s face it, the Cowboys receive an unparalleled amount of media coverage, regardless of their performance. Even in lackluster seasons, they are discussed more than teams with better records or deeper playoff runs!
Overpaid Stars
The Cowboys often spend a lot of money on star players, but the return on investment doesn’t always match the hype. Sure, they’ve had talented players in recent years, but some critics argue that these deals are driven more by brand appeal than actual performance.
Branding Over Winning
There is no question that the Cowboys brand is extremely successful. However, it does feel like the brand is more successful than the team itself. Simply put, while the team thrives off the field, their on-field results don’t justify the “America’s Team” moniker.
Drama, Drama, Drama
From owner and GM Jerry Jones’ high-profile decisions to locker room controversies, the Cowboys are often known more for their drama than their football. While this keeps them in the public eye, it doesn’t contribute to winning championships. In fact, one could argue that Jones’ actions are actually preventing the Cowboys from being successful on the field.
Mediocrity
Since their 1990s dynasty, the Cowboys have been largely mediocre. It’s just the truth! Sure, they’ve had moments of promise, but their inability to capitalize on talent has kept them from having any real post-season success.
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Reliance on Nostalgia
The reality is the Cowboys’ legacy is deeply tied to their success in the 1970s and 1990s, not anything they’ve done in the last two decades. And, while those eras were undeniably impressive, living off past glory only adds to the perception that the team is overrated.
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Questionable Coaching Decisions
From Jason Garrett’s overly long tenure to questionable in-game decisions by current coach Mike McCarthy, coaching has often been a weak point for Dallas. Will the Cowboys be willing to make a change next season?! Only time will tell.
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Are They Really “America’s Team?”
The Cowboys earned the nickname “America’s Team” in the late 1970s due to their widespread popularity, but the title hasn’t really fit in recent years. In fact, one could argue that the Kansas City Chiefs have been “America’s Team” for the last five years or so. We’re just saying!