When Did Dallas Cowboys Win the Super Bowl?

By Sarah Miller · September 16, 2028

The Dallas Cowboys have won the Super Bowl five times, claiming victories in Super Bowl VI, XII, XXVII, XXVIII, and XXX. Their most recent championship win was on January 28, 1996, when they defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers 27–17 in Super Bowl XXX.

Overview of Dallas Cowboys' Super Bowl Wins

The Dallas Cowboys, one of the most iconic franchises in NFL history, have enjoyed significant success on the biggest stage in American football. With five Super Bowl victories, the Cowboys rank among the league's elite teams in terms of championships. Their wins span two distinct eras: the early 1970s under coach Tom Landry and the dominant 1990s dynasty led by Jimmy Johnson and later Barry Switzer.

Key Facts About the Cowboys' Super Bowl Appearances

The Cowboys have appeared in eight Super Bowls, winning five and losing three.
Their first Super Bowl win came in 1972 (Super Bowl VI).
Their last Super Bowl victory was in 1996 (Super Bowl XXX).
They are tied for third-most Super Bowl wins in NFL history.
Dallas has not returned to the Super Bowl since their 1995 season appearance.

Year-by-Year Breakdown of Super Bowl Victories

The Cowboys' five Super Bowl wins were achieved across three different decades, showcasing both longevity and peak dominance during key periods in franchise history.

Super Bowl VI (1972)

On January 16, 1972, the Cowboys dominated the Miami Dolphins 24–3 at Tulane Stadium in New Orleans. This victory marked their first Super Bowl win after years of playoff frustration. Quarterback Roger Staubach led the team with precision, earning MVP honors.

Super Bowl XII (1978)

On January 15, 1978, Dallas defeated the Denver Broncos 27–10 at the Louisiana Superdome. The game was notable for its defensive intensity, with linebacker Harvey Martin and defensive end Randy White sharing MVP honors — the only time this has occurred in Super Bowl history.

Super Bowl XXVII (1993)

January 31, 1993, saw the Cowboys dismantle the Buffalo Bills 52–17 in Pasadena. After years of rebuilding, the 1990s dynasty began here. Quarterback Troy Aikman threw for four touchdowns, and the defense forced a record nine turnovers. Linebacker Leon Lett's blocked punt return was a highlight.

Super Bowl XXVIII (1994)

On January 30, 1994, Dallas repeated as champions with a 30–13 win over the Bills at Georgia Dome. Running back Emmitt Smith rushed for 132 yards and two touchdowns, earning MVP. This victory cemented the Cowboys as the team of the decade.

Super Bowl XXX (1996)

Their most recent triumph came on January 28, 1996, when the Cowboys beat the Pittsburgh Steelers 27–17 at Sun Devil Stadium. Quarterback Troy Aikman was named MVP after throwing for 246 yards and two touchdowns. This win gave them a record fifth Super Bowl title at the time.

Detailed Super Bowl Statistics

Super Bowl	Date	Opponent	Score	MVP	Location
VI	Jan 16, 1972	Miami Dolphins	24–3	Roger Staubach	New Orleans, LA
XII	Jan 15, 1978	Denver Broncos	27–10	Randy White & Harvey Martin	New Orleans, LA
XXVII	Jan 31, 1993	Buffalo Bills	52–17	Troy Aikman	Pasadena, CA
XXVIII	Jan 30, 1994	Buffalo Bills	30–13	Emmitt Smith	Atlanta, GA
XXX	Jan 28, 1996	Pittsburgh Steelers	27–17	Troy Aikman	Tempe, AZ

Table data source:1, 2

The data shows the Cowboys' dominance in blowout fashion, particularly in Super Bowls VI, XII, and XXVII, where they limited opponents to 10 points or fewer. Three of their five wins came against repeat opponents, demonstrating their ability to exploit weaknesses consistently.

Why Haven't the Cowboys Won a Super Bowl Since 1996?

Despite consistent regular-season success and high-profile signings, the Cowboys have not reached the Super Bowl since 1996. Several factors contribute to this drought: