How ’bout them Cowboys? This iconic phrase, introduced by former Dallas Cowboys head coach and FOX Sports analyst Jimmy Johnson, has become a beloved rallying cry for football fans everywhere. On this day, 32 years ago, Johnson unwittingly created a phrase that would resonate through the ages.
To understand the origins of this memorable line, let’s rewind to January 17, 1993:
Setting the scene
The legacy
In a moment of spontaneity, Johnson recalled, “I was standing on that table … looking at all these players [who are] all excited. I was stumped. I didn’t know what to say, and I looked [out and] I said, ‘How about them Cowboys?'”
He reflected, “Little did I know those four words would define my time with the Cowboys. I hear it all the time now.”
The phrase became a source of inspiration for the 1993 Cowboys, propelling them to a Super Bowl victory against the Buffalo Bills, with a staggering score of 57-12 on January 31, 1993.
Fast forward to the present, and the phrase may not reflect the current struggles of the Cowboys, who faced a challenging season marked by injuries and contract disputes that led to their absence from the playoffs. However, devoted fans are likely to revive the saying as Dallas aims for a comeback next season. The team is currently on the hunt for a new head coach after finishing the 2024 campaign with a 7-10 record, placing third in the NFC East.
For Johnson, the phrase remains a cherished part of his legacy. His co-hosts on NFL on FOX reminded him, “It’s kind of your legacy wherever you go.” With a smile, Johnson replied, “Well, how ’bout them Cowboys?”
