Cowboys offseason countdown: 99 facts until the regular season (Day 74)

Photo by Nate Fine/Getty Images

We count down the days to kickoff giving you an interesting fact about each number. Today is number 74.

We are at day 74 of our 99 day countdown until the regular season. Here is your daily fact associated with number 74.

The 1974 season proved to be a captivating year for Dallas. It showcased an unforgettable Thanksgiving game, etching its place in Cowboys history. However, it also marked the culmination of an era, as significant transformations loomed on the horizon for the team’s roster.

The Dallas Cowboys were scheduled to face their division rivals, Washington, at Texas Stadium on November 28, 1974. Both teams had a chance to secure a spot in the playoffs, but only one of them would succeed. The Cowboys had been enduring a challenging season, with a disappointing 6-5 record leading up to this Thanksgiving Day game.

Photo by Focus on Sport/Getty Images

In the second half, with Dallas trailing 16–3, the situation appeared bleak. Unfortunately, starting quarterback Roger Staubach had to leave the field due to a concussion injury and was unable to return for the remainder of the game. The responsibility of leading the team fell upon Clint Longley, a backup quarterback who had rarely seen action and had not attempted a single pass throughout the entire year.

What unraveled from Longley’s performance caught both spectators and, more significantly, the Washington defense by surprise. He effortlessly passed the ball to any open teammate he spotted, showcasing an astonishing ability for a rookie with no prior experience. Longley threw two touchdown passes, including a remarkable throw to Drew Pearson on a deep fly route. This catch is regarded as one of the most memorable Thanksgiving moments in NFL history and played a crucial role in Dallas’ 24-23 comeback victory.

1974 Thanksgiving
(Dallas vs. Washington)

"The Clint Longley Game"

Clint Longley replaces injured starter Roger Staubach, who’s suffered a concussion.
The Cowboys trial in the third quarter, 16-3.

Longley throws two touchdowns — the second, a game-winning 50-yard dime to… pic.twitter.com/3uAiDA4Dio

— Mike Poland (@kenfigkowboy) June 25, 2024

1974 was also the final year before a significant change unfolded. It marked the concluding chapter for esteemed defensive tackle Bob Lilly, talented fullback Walt Garrison, and skilled center Dave Manders. Moreover, it signaled the end of an era in Dallas for wide receiver Bob Hayes, running back Calvin Hill, defensive end Pat Toomay, guard John Niland, and quarterback Craig Morton, who was traded to the New York Giants. Morton would later move to Denver and face Staubach in Super Bowl XII.

Set Number: X19139 TK1 R19 F9

---

Cowboys Training Camp, Oxnard, 25th July (29 days to go).