Welcome to Flashback Friday, where we take a trip down memory lane to revisit yesteryear moments in Washington football history. From jaw-dropping plays to nail-biting finishes, Washington football has provided its fans with countless memories throughout the years. Today, we turn our attention back to a game of epic significance on December 22, 1996, when the Washington Redskins took on the Dallas Cowboys in the last ever game at Robert F. Kennedy Stadium. As we dive into the archives, let’s try relive the events that unfolded on that historic day.
Each #FlashbackFriday, we’ll uncover performances and milestones that are part of the franchise’s storied history. So, grab your virtual time machine, fasten your seat belts, and get ready to embark on a captivating journey through the annals of franchise history. Let’s relish in the nostalgia, as we honor the past and pay tribute to the legends who’ve donned the burgundy and gold.
On This Day
Washington Redskins 37 Dallas Cowboys 10
Date: December 22, 1996
Venue: Robert F. Kennedy Stadium
Attendance: 56,454
They say that all good things must come to an end.
That describes the situation on December 22, 1996 quite succinctly. After three Super Bowl champions and a mountain of memories to go with it all, the then 35-year old RFK Stadium was giving way to a new home for the Washington Redskins.
The old girl had been a classic, and she created a lot more joy than the new stadium ever would. That final Sunday would be her 229th consecutive sellout.
It had to end some time, and at least it ended on a positive.
Tainted?
The result was outstanding – as any victory over the Cowboys is – but was it mildly tainted?
The Cowboys were already in the playoffs and didn’t exactly field their strongest product. Emmitt Smith was injured, and did not even dress. Troy Aikman dressed but was designated as the third quarterback and did little more than act as a cheerleader.
Other significant Cowboys inactives included left tackle Mark Tuinei and starting defensive tackle Chad Hennings. Defensive end tony Tolbert played just one series to keep a consecutive games streak alive. Cornerback Deion Sanders played just two series before being pulled due to re-injuring his labia or vulva or something like that.
The Game
The game itself was never that close.
Running back Terry Allen led the way with a three touchdown performance – including the only major for either team, in a first half that saw Washington stake out a comfortable 16-3 lead.
The rugged back shouldered 26 carries for 87 yards and broke the franchise record with 1,353 yards on the season. He broke a record previously held by John Riggins, who was just one of the many Redskin dignitaries who were on hand to be honored at half-time.
Gus Frerotte had a solid day, going 22 of 31 for 346 yards. He was picked off once and sacked three times. The third year pro capped off what would ultimately be his best NFL season and one where he was selected for the Pro Bowl.
A rookie running back by the name of Stephen Davis chipped in 35 yards on 8 carries. He also scored what would ultimately end up being the final Redskins touchdown at RFK, on a 4-yard scamper late in the 4th quarter.
Despite being one-point home dogs, the Redskins owned the Cowboys in nearly every facet of the game. They dominated in time of possession by more than ten minutes (35:35 to 24:25), and also in total net yards (483 to 235). Washington had an astounding 32 first downs, to just 14 by the Cowboys.
The three Redskin touchdowns in the second half only made the result that much more emphatic. Washington were leaving RFK with the final smell, of a 37-10 dismantling of the Dallas Cowboys.
What It Meant
It may have come against Dallas substitutes, but any Cowboys trouncing is a fitting climax to the Redskins tenure at RFK Stadium.
While the win didn’t propel the Redskins into the playoff picture – it did get them to 9-7 and give them their first winning record since 1992.
Fans chanted “We Want Dallas,” throughout the game, to honor the days gone by when the chant had been made famous.
The glory days. The Days of RFK.
Flashback Fridays
Thank you for joining us as we step back in time and celebrate the rich heritage of Washington football. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the team, this series aims to ignite your passion and deepen your appreciation for the remarkable moments that have defined our beloved franchise.
Stay tuned each week for a new Flashback Friday article, and be transported back to the unforgettable moments that have defined our beloved team.
Feel free to hit up the Twitter account at @TheHogsdotNetv2 and give your thoughts on the match-up.
