Super Bowl XXVIII marked a significant moment in NFL history as it was the first time two teams faced each other in consecutive Super Bowls. The Dallas Cowboys and the Buffalo Bills met again in 1994, following their previous encounter in Super Bowl XXVII. This rematch was not just a repeat of the previous year's game but a testament to the dominance and resilience of both teams during that era.
The Road to the Rematch
The Dallas Cowboys entered Super Bowl XXVIII as the defending
champions, having won Super Bowl XXVII against the same Buffalo Bills. Despite facing challenges during the regular season, including injuries to key players and a contract dispute with star running back Emmitt Smith, the Cowboys managed to finish with a 12-4 record. Their journey to the Super Bowl was marked by a series of impressive victories, including a decisive win over the San Francisco 49ers in the NFC Championship Game.
On the other hand, the Buffalo Bills were making their fourth consecutive Super Bowl appearance, a feat unmatched by any other team at the time. Despite their previous Super Bowl losses, the Bills remained a formidable force in the AFC, finishing the regular season with a 12-4 record. Their no-huddle offense, led by quarterback Jim Kelly and running back Thurman Thomas, was a key factor in their success, helping them secure a spot in the Super Bowl once again.
The Game Unfolds
The game took place on January 30, 1994, at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta. The Bills started strong, leading 13-6 at halftime, thanks to a touchdown run by Thurman Thomas and a record-setting 54-yard field goal by Steve Christie. However, the second half saw a dramatic shift in momentum. Just 45 seconds into the third quarter, Cowboys safety James Washington returned a fumble 46 yards for a touchdown, tying the game.
From that point on, the Cowboys took control, with Emmitt Smith dominating the field. Smith, who was named Super Bowl MVP, scored two touchdowns and rushed for 132 yards, leading the Cowboys to a 30-13 victory. This win marked the Cowboys' fourth Super Bowl title, tying them with the Pittsburgh Steelers and San Francisco 49ers for the most Super Bowl wins at the time.
Legacy of the Rematch
Super Bowl XXVIII solidified the Cowboys' status as a powerhouse in the NFL and highlighted the challenges faced by the Bills in their quest for a Super Bowl victory. The game was also notable for being the last coached by Jimmy Johnson for the Cowboys, as his feud with owner Jerry Jones led to his departure.
For the Bills, the loss was a bitter pill to swallow, marking their fourth consecutive Super Bowl defeat. Despite this, their achievement of reaching four straight Super Bowls remains a remarkable feat in NFL history. The rematch between these two teams not only showcased their talent and determination but also left a lasting impact on the legacy of the Super Bowl.
