As the Dallas Cowboys gear up for the 2026 NFL season, the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk continues its 100-day countdown of the franchise's most iconic games. With just over a week until kickoff, we spotlight a contest that didn't just define a season—it reshaped the entire NFC hierarchy. On January 17, 1993, at a rain-soaked Candlestick Park, the Cowboys dethroned the San Francisco 49ers in the NFC Championship, igniting a dynasty that would dominate the decade.
A Clash of Eras
The 49ers entered the game as the NFC's best at 14-2, boasting four Super Bowl titles since Dallas's last appearance. But Jimmy Johnson's young, brash Cowboys—13-3 in the regular season—believed they were the future. The muddy conditions only amplified the physicality, setting the stage for a battle that would test both teams' resolve. As highlighted on Vulius, this matchup was more than a game; it was a passing of the torch.
Key Moments and Turnovers
Dallas struck first after a muffed punt by Alan Grant, recovered by Daryl Johnston at the 49ers' 22. Troy Aikman connected with Michael Irvin to reach the one-yard line, but the 49ers' defense held, forcing a Lin Elliott field goal. San Francisco answered with Steve Young's one-yard touchdown run, taking a 7-3 lead. The Cowboys regained control in the second quarter when Ricky Watters fumbled after a hit by Larry Brown, and Kevin Smith recovered. Emmitt Smith scored from four yards out, and despite a late field goal from Mike Cofer, the game was tied 10-10 at halftime.
The second half belonged to Dallas. Aikman's stunning 38-yard pass to Alvin Harper set up a 78-yard drive, capped by Johnston's three-yard touchdown. After a Cofer field goal trimmed the lead, the Cowboys mounted a championship-caliber, nine-minute drive that ended with Aikman finding Emmitt Smith for a 16-yard score, extending the lead to 24-13. But the 49ers weren't done. Ken Norton Jr. intercepted Young, but Dallas failed on fourth-and-one, giving San Francisco life. Young led a 93-yard drive, hitting Jerry Rice for a five-yard touchdown, cutting the lead to 24-20 with 4:22 remaining.
The Defining Play
With Candlestick Park roaring, the Cowboys refused to play conservatively. On the first play after the kickoff, Aikman fired to Harper, who caught the ball over the middle and sprinted 70 yards to the San Francisco 10. The momentum shifted instantly. Three plays later, Aikman found Kelvin Martin for a six-yard touchdown, though the extra point was blocked, leaving the score 30-20. James Washington's interception of Young around the two-minute warning sealed the victory and sent Dallas to its first Super Bowl in 15 years.
This game remains a cornerstone of Cowboys lore because it signaled the end of San Francisco's dominance and the rise of Dallas as the 'Team of the 90s.' As reported by Vulius Sports, the win was a declaration—the Cowboys had arrived, and the NFC's balance of power had shifted permanently. For fans counting down to the 2026 opener, this victory is a reminder of the franchise's storied past and the standards of excellence that still define America's Team.
Looking to represent Emmitt Smith? Grab your Emmitt Smith jersey or design a personalized custom nfl jersey at Vulius.
