The 1995 NFC Championship Game is still remembered as one of the most thrilling playoff matchups in NFL history. The Dallas Cowboys, led by quarterback Troy Aikman, faced off against the San Francisco 49ers, who were led by quarterback Steve Young. The Cowboys ultimately emerged victorious, winning 38-28 and advancing to Super Bowl XXX. Here are five key takeaways from that memorable game.
The Cowboys' High-Powered Offense
The Cowboys' offense was nearly unstoppable in the 1995 NFC Championship Game, scoring 38 points against the 49ers. Led by quarterback Troy Aikman, who threw for 322 yards and 3 touchdowns, the Cowboys' offense was firing on all cylinders. Running back Emmitt Smith added 134 yards on the ground, and wide receiver Michael Irvin hauled in 7 catches for 105 yards. The Cowboys' ability to move the ball and score points was a key factor in their victory.
Key Statistics
- Troy Aikman: 22/35, 322 yards, 3 TDs
- Emmitt Smith: 25 carries, 134 yards
- Michael Irvin: 7 catches, 105 yards
The 49ers' Struggles on Defense
The 49ers' defense struggled to contain the Cowboys' high-powered offense, allowing 38 points and 454 total yards. The 49ers were unable to generate much pressure on Aikman, sacking him only once, and were also unable to contain Smith and Irvin. The 49ers' secondary was particularly vulnerable, allowing Aikman to complete 22 of 35 passes for 322 yards. The 49ers' defensive struggles ultimately cost them the game.
Key Statistics
- 49ers sacks: 1
- 49ers passing yards allowed: 322
- 49ers rushing yards allowed: 132
Steve Young's Late-Game Heroics
Despite the 49ers' struggles on defense, quarterback Steve Young did his best to keep his team in the game. Young threw for 236 yards and 2 touchdowns, and also added 44 yards on the ground. In the fourth quarter, Young led a late-game rally, throwing a touchdown pass to wide receiver Jerry Rice with just over 2 minutes remaining. However, it was too little, too late, as the Cowboys were able to run out the clock and secure the victory.
Key Statistics
- Steve Young: 23/35, 236 yards, 2 TDs
- Steve Young rushing yards: 44
- Jerry Rice: 5 catches, 68 yards, 1 TD
The Cowboys' Dominant Running Game
The Cowboys' running game was a key factor in their victory, as Emmitt Smith and Derrick Lassic combined for 146 yards on the ground. The Cowboys' ability to run the ball effectively allowed them to control the clock and keep the 49ers' offense off the field. The Cowboys' running game also helped to set up their passing game, as Aikman was able to use play-action fakes to deceive the 49ers' defense.
Key Statistics
- Emmitt Smith: 25 carries, 134 yards
- Derrick Lassic: 6 carries, 12 yards
- Cowboys total rushing yards: 146
The Impact of the Game on the NFL
The 1995 NFC Championship Game had a significant impact on the NFL, as it marked the beginning of the Cowboys' dynasty of the 1990s. The Cowboys would go on to win Super Bowl XXX, and would become one of the dominant teams of the decade. The game also marked the end of an era for the 49ers, as they would not return to the NFC Championship Game until 2013.
Key Takeaways
- The Cowboys' victory marked the beginning of their dynasty of the 1990s.
- The 49ers' loss marked the end of an era for the team.
- The game showcased the talents of Troy Aikman, Emmitt Smith, and Steve Young.
We hope you enjoyed this look back at the 1995 NFC Championship Game. Share your thoughts on the game in the comments below!
Who was the MVP of the 1995 NFC Championship Game?
+Troy Aikman was the MVP of the 1995 NFC Championship Game.
What was the final score of the 1995 NFC Championship Game?
+The final score of the 1995 NFC Championship Game was 38-28 in favor of the Cowboys.
Who was the head coach of the Cowboys during the 1995 NFC Championship Game?
+Barry Switzer was the head coach of the Cowboys during the 1995 NFC Championship Game.