The Big D-ebate
Let’s explore the Big D (as in Debate) over which Cowboys was truly their best ever. Dallas has been lucky to be led by some talented quarterbacks throughout their storied history. From the legendary Roger Staubach to the current Pro Bowler, Dak Prescott, debates over who holds the title of the best Cowboys quarterback often spark some incredibly passionate chats among fans. That being said, let’s take a deeper dive into each of the quarterback’s accomplishments, statistics, and impact on the team.
Roger Staubach
Roger Staubach, who was known as “Captain America” (fitting since Dallas is known as America’s team), is a beloved figure in Cowboys lore. Staubach led the Cowboys to two Super Bowl victories (VI, XII) and earned the Super Bowl MVP award in Super Bowl VI. His ability to perform in clutch moments earned him another nickname “Captain Comeback.” Staubach was a six-time Pro Bowler, a two-time Super Bowl champion, and a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame. His leadership on and off the field, combined with his impressive stats, solidifies his place as one of the greatest quarterbacks in Cowboys history, but was he their GOAT?
Troy Aikman
Troy AikmanLet’s take a look at another Cowboys legend, Troy Aikman. He was one of the famed “Triplets” during the team’s 1990s dominance. Aikman guided the Cowboys to three Super Bowl victories (XXVII, XXVIII, XXX) and was named the MVP of Super Bowl XXVII. And if it weren’t for the parting of ways, if you will, of head coach Jimmy Johnson and owner Jerry Jones who knows, he may have hoisted a few more Lombardi trophies.
Aikman was known for precision passing and command of the offense. He racked up six Pro Bowl selections and as we said is in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. His ability to deliver under pressure and lead the Cowboys to multiple championships cements his legacy as one of the best quarterbacks in franchise history.
Dak Prescott
Now let’s talk 2024. Dak Prescott has emerged as a force for the Cowboys. Since coming in for an injured Tony Romo in 2016 as Cowboy’s fourth-round pick (135 overall), Prescott has shattered numerous records. Despite facing adversity, including a devastating injury in 2020, Prescott has consistently showcased his leadership, resilience, and talent on the field. He’s been to multiple Pro Bowls, been up for MVP, and has a bunch of Cowboys franchise records such as passing yards and touchdowns.
Comparing these quarterbacks purely based on statistics, each has his strengths and accomplishments. Staubach boasts an impressive career passer rating of 83.4, with 22,700 passing yards and 153 touchdown passes in his career. Aikman compiled 32,942 passing yards, 165 touchdown passes, and a career passer rating of 81.6. Prescott just concluded his eighth full season as the Cowboys’ starter. He has already amassed 29,459 passing yards, 202 touchdown passes, and a career passer rating of 99. While stats are impressive most feel that winning the big game is the ultimate measuring stick.
Case in point, this year, Prescott led the team to a 12-5 record and won the NFC East. He led the NFL in touchdown passes with 36 and was intercepted nine times. Among full-time starting quarterbacks, he led the NFL in completion percentage (69.5%) and was second in QBR (72.9), quarterback rating (105.9), and passing yards (4,516). But, and this is a big “but,” his playoff record is now 2-5 after the Cowboys’ stunning flop against the Packers back in January. Plus, zero Super Bowls and zero NFC Championship appearances.
In the end the the debate will be just that because determining the best Cowboys quarterback is subjective being influenced by everything from opinions to nostalgia. That said, each quarterback has left an indelible mark on the franchise, contributing to its larger-than-life legacy. Who knows, maybe Prescott can get over the hump and help his team land a Lombardi trophy or two. If and when that happens nobody knows, but it would surely make the Big D-ebate even bigger in Big D!
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