Since the AFL-NFL merger in 1970, the Cowboys have gone 14-8 during divisional round playoff games. The team’s first loss in the division round occurred in 1976.
The team’s first loss in the division round occurred in 1976. The 11-3 Cowboys hosted the 10-3-1 Rams at Texas Stadium.
Dallas had a 10-7 lead heading into the fourth quarter, but the Rams regained the lead and held on for a 14-12 win. The lack of a running game prompted the Cowboys to trade for a draft pick that allowed them to select Tony Dorsett.
One Dallas player during that 1976 playoff loss recorded two interceptions and a fumble recovery.