The Cowboys vs Packers rivalry is one of the most storied and intense matchups in the history of the National Football League (NFL). Spanning decades, this clash between the Dallas Cowboys and the Green Bay Packers has produced iconic games, legendary players, and moments that have left an indelible mark on football lore. From the frozen tundra of Lambeau Field to the bright lights of AT&T Stadium, every encounter between these two teams is a chapter in a saga that continues to captivate fans around the world. In this article, we delve deep into the history, key games, notable players, and statistical highlights of the Cowboys vs Packers rivalry, while also looking ahead to their upcoming Thanksgiving Day showdown in 2025.
The Origins and Evolution of the Cowboys vs Packers Rivalry
The Cowboys vs Packers rivalry traces its roots back to the late 1960s, a golden era for both franchises. At the time, the Green Bay Packers, under the legendary coach Vince Lombardi, were already a dynasty, having won five NFL championships in seven years. The Dallas Cowboys, a newer franchise that joined the NFL in 1960, were quickly rising to prominence, led by stars like quarterback Don Meredith and running back Don Perkins. The stage was set for a clash of titans.
The rivalry truly ignited when the two teams met in consecutive NFL Championship Games in 1966 and 1967. In 1966, the Packers defeated the Cowboys 34–27 at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, a game that showcased the Packers’ dominance. But it was the 1967 NFL Championship Game, played at Lambeau Field, that etched itself into NFL history as the “Ice Bowl.” With temperatures plummeting to -13°F (-25°C) and a wind chill of -48°F (-44°C), the game was a test of human endurance. The Packers emerged victorious 21–17, thanks to Bart Starr’s iconic quarterback sneak for the winning touchdown with just seconds remaining. This victory not only sent the Packers to Super Bowl II but also established the Cowboys vs Packers rivalry as one of the NFL’s greatest.
Under Lombardi, the Packers never lost to the Cowboys, a fact that fueled the rivalry’s early intensity. However, the balance of power shifted in the 1990s, when both teams became perennial contenders in the NFC. The Cowboys, led by quarterback Troy Aikman, running back Emmitt Smith, and coach Jimmy Johnson, won three Super Bowls (XXVII, XXVIII, and XXX) between 1992 and 1995. The Packers, with Brett Favre at quarterback and coach Mike Holmgren, also rose to prominence, winning Super Bowl XXXI in 1996.
During this period, the Cowboys vs Packers rivalry reached its peak. The two teams met in the playoffs three consecutive years (1993, 1994, and 1995), with the Cowboys winning all three games, two of which led to Super Bowl victories. These matchups, all held at Texas Stadium in Dallas, were marked by high stakes and unforgettable performances. The rivalry was so intense that CBS ranked it as the No. 3 NFL rivalry of the 1990s Cowboys–Packers rivalry.
In more recent years, the rivalry has continued to evolve. During Brett Favre’s era with the Packers, the Cowboys dominated, posting a 9–2 record, including a perfect 9–0 at home in Dallas. However, with Aaron Rodgers taking over as the Packers’ quarterback, the tide turned. Rodgers led the Packers to an 8–2 record against the Cowboys, including a 3–0 record in Dallas. Key games during this period include the 2014 NFC Divisional Playoff, known as the “Dez Caught It” game, and the 2016 NFC Divisional Playoff, where the Packers won on a last-second field goal.
Key Games That Defined the Cowboys vs Packers Rivalry
The Cowboys vs Packers rivalry is rich with memorable games, each adding to its lore. Below is a table summarizing some of the most significant matchups:
| Year | Game Type | Score | Venue | Key Moment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1966 | NFL Championship | Packers 34–27 | Cotton Bowl | Packers secured Super Bowl I berth |
| 1967 | NFL Championship (“Ice Bowl”) | Packers 21–17 | Lambeau Field | Bart Starr’s QB sneak in -13°F conditions |
| 1993 | NFC Divisional Playoff | Cowboys 27–17 | Texas Stadium | Emmitt Smith’s 168 yards, two TDs |
| 1994 | NFC Divisional Playoff | Cowboys 35–9 | Texas Stadium | Troy Aikman’s three TD passes |
| 1995 | NFC Championship | Cowboys 38–27 | Texas Stadium | Led to Super Bowl XXX win |
| 2014 | NFC Divisional Playoff (“Dez Caught It”) | Packers 26–21 | Lambeau Field | Dez Bryant’s catch overturned, led to rule change |
| 2016 | NFC Divisional Playoff | Packers 34–31 | AT&T Stadium | Mason Crosby’s 51-yard FG as time expired |
| 2022 | Regular Season | Packers 31–28 (OT) | Lambeau Field | First overtime game, Aaron Rodgers’ final start |
| 2023 | NFC Wild Card | Packers 48–32 | AT&T Stadium | 7th-seeded Packers upset 2nd-seeded Cowboys |
These games highlight the competitive nature of the Cowboys vs Packers rivalry. The 1967 “Ice Bowl” remains one of the most iconic games in NFL history, while the 2014 “Dez Caught It” game sparked a rule change after Dez Bryant’s catch was controversially ruled incomplete. The 2023 NFC Wild Card game saw the Packers, as the seventh seed, dominate the second-seeded Cowboys, marking a historic upset.
Notable Players Who Shaped the Rivalry
The Cowboys vs Packers rivalry has been shaped by some of the greatest players in NFL history. Here are a few who left an indelible mark:
- Bart Starr (Packers QB): Led the Packers to victory in the “Ice Bowl” with his iconic quarterback sneak.
- Vince Lombardi (Packers Coach): His teams dominated the early matchups, setting the tone for the rivalry.
- Brett Favre (Packers QB): Despite the Cowboys’ dominance during his era (9–2 record), Favre’s leadership made every game a battle.
- Aaron Rodgers (Packers QB): Turned the tables with an 8–2 record against the Cowboys, including key playoff wins.
- Troy Aikman (Cowboys QB): Led the Cowboys to three Super Bowl victories, including playoff wins over the Packers.
- Emmitt Smith (Cowboys RB): A key figure in the 1990s, Smith’s performances in playoff games against the Packers were legendary.
- Dez Bryant (Cowboys WR): His controversial catch in the 2014 playoff game became a defining moment in the rivalry.
- Mason Crosby (Packers K): Known for clutch field goals, including the game-winner in the 2016 playoffs and overtime in 2022.
- Dak Prescott (Cowboys QB): Has faced the Packers in several key games, including playoff losses in 2016 and 2023.
- Jordan Love (Packers QB): Made his mark in the 2023 playoffs, leading the Packers to a 48–32 upset over the Cowboys.
These players, among others, have contributed to the rich tapestry of the Cowboys vs Packers rivalry, each adding their own chapter to its history.
Statistical Overview: A Balanced Rivalry
As of the latest data, the Packers hold a slight edge in the all-time series, leading 22–17. This includes a 17–13 advantage in the regular season and a 5–4 edge in the playoffs. The two teams have met 39 times, with each game adding to the rivalry’s intensity.
| Category | Packers | Cowboys |
|---|---|---|
| Total Meetings | 22 wins | 17 wins |
| Regular Season | 17 wins | 13 wins |
| Postseason | 5 wins | 4 wins |
These numbers reflect a rivalry that is closely contested, with both teams having moments of dominance.
Cultural Impact: More Than Just Football
The Cowboys vs Packers rivalry transcends the game itself, influencing fan culture and the NFL as a whole. The Cowboys, often called “America’s Team,” have a massive national following, while the Packers, uniquely community-owned, represent a deep sense of loyalty and tradition. Games between these teams are not just about wins and losses; they’re about pride, history, and the spirit of competition.
Moments like the “Ice Bowl” and “Dez Caught It” have become part of NFL folklore, sparking debates and discussions among fans for years. The rivalry has also driven innovation, such as the 2017 catch rule change, and has consistently delivered must-watch football, drawing millions of viewers.
Recent Developments and the Future
In recent years, the Cowboys vs Packers rivalry has continued to deliver drama. The 2022 regular season game went into overtime, with the Packers winning 31–28 in Aaron Rodgers’ final start for Green Bay. In 2023, the seventh-seeded Packers stunned the second-seeded Cowboys 48–32 in the NFC Wild Card round, showcasing Jordan Love’s emergence as a star quarterback.
Looking ahead, fans can anticipate another thrilling chapter on Thanksgiving Day, November 27, 2025, when the Cowboys host the Packers at AT&T Stadium NFL Schedule Release. This game, part of the NFL’s Thanksgiving tripleheader, will be a national showcase, with both teams eager to prove their dominance. For the Cowboys, it’s a chance to end their losing streak at home against the Packers; for the Packers, it’s an opportunity to extend their undefeated record at AT&T Stadium.
Conclusion
The Cowboys vs Packers rivalry is a cornerstone of NFL history, embodying the competitive spirit and passion that make football America’s favorite sport. From the frozen fields of Lambeau to the modern battlegrounds of AT&T Stadium, every game between these two teams is a reminder of why this rivalry is so special. With a balanced history, dramatic playoff games, and a cast of legendary players, the Cowboys vs Packers matchup continues to captivate fans and define excellence in the NFL. As we look forward to their 2025 Thanksgiving showdown, one thing is certain: when the Cowboys face the Packers, history is always in the making.
