15 most successful NFL Franchises of the Super Bowl Era statistically ranked
By Daniel
Sep 7, 2014; Arlington, TX, USA; A Dallas Cowboys flag carrier runs on the field before the game against the San Francisco 49ers at AT&T Stadium. San Francisco beat Dallas 28-17. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
1. Dallas Cowboys: 446 Points
And here we are, the most successful franchise of the Super Bowl Era is none other than “America’s Team” — the Dallas Cowboys. Some may argue that the Cowboys haven’t been incredibly successful since the mid 90s, which they haven’t. But they impressively built up enough success between 1966-1996 to earn them the number one spot.
They did so not just because of their five Super Bowl championships but because they won their division more and reached the playoffs more than any other franchise in the Super Bowl era (21 division championships and 30 playoff appearances).
Their 10 conference championships of the era are the most, too. Success isn’t just about winning the big game, it’s about consistently being a contender. They were more consistently competitive than any other franchise from the dawn of the Super Bowl until the mid-90s.
Emmitt Smith in Canton, OH: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Names like Roger Staubach, Tom Landry, Emmitt Smith, and Troy Aikman all carry images of dominance and success. The ‘Boys were truly great in two separate eras and missed the playoffs only once during the 19-year span between 1965-1983.
This franchise earned this first place ranking and should enjoy it. For now that is, if their recent struggles continue they won’t celebrate this title for long. The Steelers are closing in on them fast. Look out “America’s Team,” Steeler Nation is lurking. All eyes on you Tony Romo.
I wonder how the next 25 years will shape this list, as this list will continue to evolve as long as the NFL is around. Which teams will climb it and which will fall from it? It’s almost certain that new teams will be added to it.
We’ll see as the Super Bowl Era rolls on how much longer the Dallas Cowboys can claim that they are the most successful franchise of the Super Bowl Era. Perhaps they’ll hold it forever, or maybe the Steelers will claim the title before Ben Rothlisberger reties — time will tell.
Fortunately for us fans, all we have to do is sit back and enjoy the games. If you enjoyed this, check out our ranking of all 32 NFL Franchises in order of all-time greatness. It shakes out a bit differently than this list.